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609-726-1590, ext. 4411
Nick’s research interests include the areas of plant breeding, germplasm utilization, interspecific gene transfer, genetics, genomics, and fruit phytochemistry and natural products.
A major emphasis of his research program is directed towards broadening the genetic base for the genetic improvement of cranberry and blueberry. Specific research areas include: germplasm evaluation and utilization, interspecific and heteroploid gene transfer. Traits of interest include adaptation, disease and insect resistance, and fruit phytochemistry.
Germplasm and breeding population analyses include: GBS, QTL analysis, SSRs, genomic sequencing and molecular marker development. Areas of his research also include: polyploid cytogenetics, 2n gametes, chromosome pairing behavior, trait introgression, and MAS.
Impacts of his research include:
- Genome sequencing and genetic map development of cranberry
- Genetics of fruit rot resistance in cranberry, and fruit organic acids and flavonoids in cranberry and blueberry.
- Identified A-type proanthocyanidins as E. coli bioactive compounds from cranberry3. Developed high yielding cranberry varieties with modified fruit chemistry attributes.
- Identified QTLs (SNPs and SSR) for fruit rot resistance, organic acids, and flavonoids
- Developed a PCR based DNA fingerprinting method and DNA fingerprint database for cranberry varietal identification.