The primary research area of our lab involves topics within the broadly defined area of functional genomics. The initial work in the lab will use genetically homogeneous diploid potato as a model system to study yield-related traits in crops. The potato research and breeding community is taking a giant step forward by studying and improving potatoes at the diploid level. Our main research interests are in systemically dissecting the gene regulatory networks underlying plant development focusing on yield-related traits such as tuber formation, plant architecture time, flowering time. Furthermore, we work on developing cutting-edge genetic tools and platforms for the purpose of high-throughput isolation and characterization of functional genes. The second research area in our lab is investigating the organization and function of distinct niches in orderly arranged genomes, and the transposon-host interactions in eukaryotes, with a particular focus on characterizing transposon-derived genetic factors required for precision-targeting and anti-silencing mechanisms. By exploring novel modes of parasitic strategies of transposons and the dynamics of genome ecology, we aim to arrive at a more complete understanding of how eukaryotic genomes work and evolve.