In the Developmental Genetics group, we are using a molecular genetic approach to understand more about the basic biology of important processes in plant development, using pea as a model system. Interests within the group include plant hormone biosynthesis, light perception, the control of flowering, stem elongation, apical dominance, phase change and seed development.
Contact: Jim.Weller@utas.edu.au
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Plant hormone biosynthesis and actionPlant hormones play an important role in the regulation of plant development. We are investigating the biological functions and interactions of a number of different plant hormones, including the gibberellins, brassinosteroids, auxin and abscisic acid. This work covers a range of species, including pea, barley, pumpkin, Arabidopsis, Eucalyptus, grape and strawberry. |
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Flowering and photoperiodismFlowering time is an important trait in many crop species, and we are using a genetic approach to understand more about how environmental factors such as daylength and temperature control the onset and duration of flowering. We are also investigating the relationship between flowering and other developmental processes including branching and cold tolerance. |
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Light perception and responseLight is one of the most important environmental factors controlling plant development. Plants have several different groups of photoreceptors that enable them to sense and respond to their light environment in different ways. |