Research

Advances in genomics are generating enormous amounts of data. As a result, bioinformatics is facing a need to move towards more interdisciplinary research to understand and interpret these data more effectively. Through genomics-driven bioinformatics approaches, we aim to understand the molecular underpinnings of various plant adaptations to semi-arid and arid environments.

Won Yim is assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology department. Yim's lab studies plant genomics, including how genome organization affects gene expression, phenotypes, and genomic plasticity. Using bioinformatics, we investigate the diversity of plants, focusing on enabling crop improvement through diversification mechanisms associated with genetic variation associated with large scale genome duplications, while at the same time maintaining core functions. Through understanding the basis of polyploidy and genome conformation in plants, our lab aims to develop strategies for increased plant tolerance to harsh environments as well as increased biomass productivity.

On-going projects include the assembly and analysis of multiple genomes and transcriptomes such as Brassica carinata, ice plant, Opuntia, Teff and potato. We participate in open source software development projects and other initiatives that aim to improve data sharing and adherence to standards among those involved in information resource management in plant biology.

The lab seeks to understand how genes function in plants, insects, and vertebrates through metabolomics, protein structure analysis, evolution analysis, and photosynthesis in order to help future efforts relate gene function to plants, insects, and vertebrates.