What we do

Genomics and Eco-evolution of Multi-scale Symbioses (GEMS) is a scientific research institute funded by the National Science Foundation. We aim to elucidate the symbiotic effects of microbes on the natural world, using microbial impacts on clover and honey bees as model systems. For example, microbes on clover roots help the plant access vital nutrients, and microbes in the honey bee gut help prevent disease. The symbiotic relationship between honey bees and clover also affects a $20 billion honey industry in the USA, as well as having broad-reaching implications on sustainable agriculture. Thus, our research has fundamental and practical applications.

Why we study microbes

We, as well as the animals and plants around us, live in a microbial world. Microbes and viruses interact with and move through the genomes of every organism. These microbial interactions can change the traits, behaviors, and functions of the host plant or animal. Sometimes the results are beneficial, and sometimes they cause disease. Additionally, the widespread impacts of microbial interactions on a global scale is becoming more and more clear, affecting agriculture, health, disease, and more. To control the impact microbes have on the natural world, we must first understand how they influence the ecosystems of which they are a part. 

How we do it

We take an integrative approach, bringing together many fields of biology, to understand how microbes impact both individual organisms, as well as entire ecosystems. Our collaborative group of scientists and educators take an interdisciplinary approach across their fields to answer these questions. Additionally, we use a shared leadership model with co-mentorship between trainers and trainees.