DEFINING THE ROLES OF THE RNA MODIFICATION PSEUDOURIDINE IN PLANT ABIOTIC STRESS RESPONSE

This project aims to elucidate the molecular role of the RNA modification pseudouridine in plant abiotic stress response. To achieve this goal, three aims were proposed: (1) pseudouridine synthase (PUS) mutants will be assayed for differential abiotic stress response, (2) mutants with strong phenotypes will be used for Pseudo-seq (a genome-wide, site-specific detection of pseudouridine) in mRNA with and without abiotic stress, and (3) mutants will be investigated to understand pseudouridine's role(s) in alternative splicing and protein interactions with and without abiotic stress.Other project goals involve career development opportunities such as visits to BioNTech and Orbital Therapeutics, two RNA biotechnology companies, to gain unique perspectives, knowledge, and skills. I will also present at local, national, and international conferences to share my research to a diverse audience.