Craig Pikaard wants to understand the mechanisms underlying how and why specific genes are switched on and off. Using the plant Arabidopsis as a model system, Pikaard’s team employs a variety of techniques – from genetics, genomics, cell and molecular biology, to biochemistry – to research two processes: selective silencing of specific ribosomal RNA gene subtypes and RNA-directed DNA methylation. Understanding how specific genes are silenced in plants could help elucidate how these processes go awry in human development-associated diseases, including cancer.
Thirteen HHMI scientists have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences.  Fifteen scientists working in the plant sciences gain flexible support from HHMI and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to move their research in creative new directions.