Details for Understanding plant growth, development and survival through studies of ion homeostasis.

Faculty:	Sze, Heven
Department:	Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
Lab:
Campus Phone:	301-405-1645
Campus Address:	3232 H.J. Patterson Hall
Email:	hsze@umd.edu
Project Details: Understanding plant growth, development and survival through studies of ion homeostasis. Plant growth, development, and survival depend on the uptake, translocation, and sorting of essential nutrients and exclusion of toxic ions. However, the molecular bases for these regulated transport processes are largely unknown. The first complete genome sequence of a plant, large mutant collections and extensive databases provide opportunities to discover the functions of over 1000 transporters in Arabidopsis. The major objectives are to determine the biological roles of Ca and proton pumps, and H+-coupled ion transporters. These studies are important for strategies to improve stress tolerance and male fertility in reproduction.
Required Skills:	Strong background and interest in biology and chemistry preferred.
Recommended Skills:	Proficiency in general computer skills.
Other Information:	Student must commit at least one year to the project.