My research is on viral and potential microbial diseases of citrus in California. In my lab, we study the etiology of putative viral diseases, as well as the ecology and molecular biology of citrus-infecting viruses in California focusing in . Citrus viroids present an excellent system for molecular evolutionary studies. In my laboratory we investigate the intra-population structures of the self-replicating viroid RNA molecule in combination with the molecular and biological properties of the progeny viroids in an effort to reveal evolutionary patterns that effect pathogenicity, infectivity and other features of the smallest known plant pathogen. My responsibilities also include being the director of the Citrus Clonal Protection Program (CCPP). This internationally recognized program provides researchers and growers with stocks of stable, disease-tested citrus fruit and rootstock varieties. Over 200 important varieties are maintained by the program which are routinely tested for diseases and evaluated horticulturally. In addition, through its disease testing and disease elimination capabilities, the CCPP provides a safe mechanism for importing citrus varieties from other countries. The CCPP thereby serves as a valuable and prestigious resource for scientists at UCR and throughout the world that are interested in variety improvement.
