Graduate Research Assistant
- Project 1: Refining the rhizosphere microbial consortia for enhanced biocontrol of corn pathogens
- Managed NIFA-funded project on corn rhizosphere microbial consortia, overseeing experiments, data analysis, and student training.
- Engineered microbial consortia against corn pathogens (Pythium torulosum, Fusarium spp., Rhizoctonia solani), achieving >65% inhibition against the Pythium pathogen.
- Performed aseptic microbiological procedures and molecular assays, including PCR, qPCR, DNA extraction, and 16S rRNA sequencing.
- Supervised and mentored 6 student researchers, coordinating tasks and ensuring reproducibility.
- Project 2: Co-inoculation of mycorrhizal fungi & Azotobacter vinelandii for better nitrogen uptake in cereals
- Demonstrated microbial cooperation, increasing microbial colonization of corn roots by 1.7× and enhancing nitrogen fixation efficiency (15N assays) in cereal.
- Provided molecular and microbiological expertise to support sustainable crop management strategies.
- Developed and optimized laboratory protocols (SOPs), including safety and biosafety procedures.
