I am interested in development of innovative, sustainable approaches to pathogen control in horticulture production systems and understanding the basic molecular and ecological mechanisms involved.

My MSc and PhD were primarily focused on molecular plant pathology of phytoplasmas, plant viruses. During my postdoctoral project I have studied efficacy and molecular mechanisms of pulsed UV light induced plant immunity to reduce pre- and post-harvest infections of Botrytis cinerea in tomato and cut roses production systems.

Since I joined EMR   applied and fundamental research of biocontrol agents and bio-stimulants to control apple canker (Neonectria ditissima), ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) and Phytopthtora species on strawberry, raspberry (P. fragariae and P. cactorum) and oak (P. ramorum). I am also interested in ecological implications of biocontrol agents; efficacy of biocontrol across different biomes/growing practices; impact of biocontrol organisms and bio-stimulants on natural microbial communities (rhizosphere and phylosphere), plant physiology (yield, nutrient and water use) and plant immunity.