Genomes have a highly organised architecture (non-random organisation of functional and non-functional genetic elements within chromosomes) that is essential for many biological functions, particularly, gene expression and reproduction.

During nitrogen-fixing symbiosis, soil bacteria called rhizobia induce the formation of root nodules on legume roots, in which they fix atmospheric nitrogen that the plant can use as a nitrogen source.

In my project I have examined the roles and interplay of the plant signalling factors, flavonoids, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cytokinin in establishment of symbiotic infection of rhizobia in the roots of the model legume Medicago truncatula.

Biodiversity rests on a foundation of adaptive and neutral variation within populations and species, that interact in communities or coexist in assemblages, to define ecosystems that provide habitat and life support services including a stable climate. New technologies span this biodiversity pyramid and allow rapid and

Agricultural crop production is continually challenged by plant-pathogenic fungi, jeopardizing global food security. Central to plant-fungal interactions are small proteins called effectors, which can be secreted by pathogens into plant cells to promote disease.

Jenny Mortimer is Associate Professor of Plant Synthetic Biology at the University of Adelaide, Australia, in the School of Agriculture, Food and Wine & The Waite Research Institute.