Biography
I grew up in Vancouver, WA and attended Brigham Young University, completing my Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry. I completed my PhD at Michigan State University in Genetics, with focus on plant-pathogenic bacteria and then received post-doctoral training at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Marlyand. Before coming to BYU I worked as a research plant pathologist for USDA in Fargo, ND.
My wife, Elizabeth, and I have 3 sons. We enjoy being active outdoors together - hiking, biking, gardening, and playing soccer. We also enjoy music and cooking.
Research Interests
Molecular mechanisms and gene regulation enabling bacteria to succeed in a plant environment.Teaching Interests
MicrobiologyBacterial genetics
Bacterial physiology