My research aims to understand the biosynthesis and function of plant specialised metabolites, particularly the anthocyanin, carotenoid, and betalain pigments that colour our fruit and flowers. I work on both model and crop species to identify genes that underlie quality traits such as fruit colour and associated health properties. I am also passionate about the liverworts, mosses, and hornworts that form our forest carpet. As part of this, I helped pioneer the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha as a new model system, particularly for elucidating how land plants cope with environmental stresses. During this work we discovered a new class of plant pigments – the auronidins – that modify plant cell walls to improve defence against pathogens and pests. In recent work I have been contributing to developing a research capability for understanding the genetics of nectary biology, including working with Māori partners on mānuka.

• Orcid profile

  Research history and publications