My primary research goal is to understand how a plant functions as an integrated organism, and the mechanisms that determine the development of vastly different forms and functions of diverse species suited to specific environmental niches. Several specific areas of interest include mechanisms of vascular transport, regulation of whole-plant carbon and nutrient allocation, plant defense responses to herbivory, and biosynthesis of defensive biochemicals. This type of knowledge provides a scientific basis for tree improvement, forest tree protection and management, and conservation.
