Leach - Plant Disease and Resistance Lab

One of the most intriguing challenges for plant biologists is to understand the complex interactions of plants, their environment, and the multitude of living organisms in or around the plant – the phytobiome. These studies integrate physiological, molecular, genomic and genetic approaches, and involve laboratory and field experimentation. Ultimately, the goals of our group are to identify sources of long-lasting, broad-spectrum disease/insect resistance in the plant host, allowing for the development of ecologically sustainable forms of plant disease/insect control.

Plant Disease and Resistance Research

Research in the Leach group focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of plant disease susceptibility and resistance, with a particular interest in quantitative traits for susceptibility and resistance. We also study how climate changes impact plant disease caused by microbial pathogens, primarily studying rice and interactions with bacterial pathogens, and how the Russian wheat aphid microbiome influences the insects’ aggressiveness to plants. Our group also develops molecular diagnostics for microbial pathogens.

Research Projects and Funding

Biomass

One aspect of research in the Leach Lab has focused on biomass and bioenergy and how plants can be optimized for food, forage, and energy.

Biomass

Research Interests

Our goals are to identify sources of long-lasting, broad-spectrum disease resistance (effective against pathogens), allowing for the development of ecologically sustainable forms of plant disease control.

Research and Funding

Publications

Read more about our publications here.

View All Publications

Contact Information

mailing address

Colorado State University
Plant Science Building E106
Fort Collins, CO 80523

phone

(970) 491-2924

e-mail Jan.Leach@Colostate.edu