Seaweeds grow and propagate in dynamic coastal environments influenced by tides and currents. These conditions require seaweeds to firmly attach and adapt their development to this demanding environment. My research interests lie primarily in the chemical ecology, evolutionary developmental biology, and ecophysiology of seaweeds and especially their propagules. My research focuses on harnessing the innovative strengths of basic science to generate robust developmental biological knowledge of seaweed embryogenesis advancing sustainable seaweed aquaculture and comprehending and mitigating the impacts of anthropogenic stressors. My main focus is the propagules of Dictyotales, an important brown algal order in warm-temperate to tropical regions and kelp, an important order in temperate and polar regions.
Cell differentiation & development
By examining cell polarization in Dictyota dichotoma and the role of auxin in rhizoid differentiation, my research addresses key questions in developmental biology. Concurrently, studying early kelp development, particularly in Undaria pinnatifida, seeks to improve sustainable aquaculture practices.
Growth and fertility of algae
Working with zygotes and spores laboratory strains of seaweeds, control over their growth and fertility is vital. Dictyota is an ideal brown seaweed for studying more complex parenchymatous brown algae.
Multicellularity and Developmental Mechanisms in Seaweeds
This research investigates the molecular basis of multicellularity and development in seaweeds, revealing key genomic innovations in evolutionary processes.