Overview
My research interests focus on understanding the origins and outcomes of genome variation in fungal genomes. During my Ph.D. studies at Kansas State University, I explored the role of histone modifications in regulating gene expression and the impact of DNA double-strand breaks on genome variations in the phytopathogenic fungus Magnaporthe oryzae. In the Heitman lab, I will be studying the connection of RNAi, chromatin modification, DNA repair, and transposable elements to the underlying mechanisms of genome instability in Cryptococcus species by utilizing a range of molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics methods.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Postdoctoral Associate
Molecular Genetics and Microbiology,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Homeodomain protein Sxi1α regulates cell-cell fusion during distinct sexual reproduction modes in Cryptococcus deneoformans.
Preprint · February 14, 2025 Full text Link to item CiteDistinct evolutionary trajectories following loss of RNA interference in Cryptococcus neoformans.
Journal Article Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · November 19, 2024 While increased mutation rates typically have negative consequences in multicellular organisms, hypermutation can be advantageous for microbes adapting to the environment. Previously, we identified two hypermutator Cryptococcus neoformans clinical isolates ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Impact of RNAi and unisexual reproduction on Cryptococcus evolution, drug resistance, and pathogenesis
ResearchPostdoctoral Associate · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 1997 - 2026Structure, function, and evolution of the Cryptococcus MAT locus
ResearchPostdoctoral Associate · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2002 - 2025View All Grants