Ryoko Oono

Specific Project Info:
Dr. Oono's research involves studying the ecology and evolution of fungi. Students will assist in culturing fungi from leaves, conducting molecular biology experiments (such as PCR and sequencing), and performing basic ecological analyses using the collected datasets. This project is cross-listed with the FRAP (Fungal Restoration and Protection) program. Students can also contribute to ongoing research by helping in the collection of ecological data and supporting the analysis of fungal interactions with plant ecosystems.
Required Skills: No prior experience required, but interest in molecular biology and ecology is encouraged.
Estimated Number of Students: 5-6

Bio:

Ryoko Oono is an evolutionary ecologist specializing in plant-microbe interactions. She completed her BA at Carleton College and her PhD in plant biology at the University of Minnesota, where she researched the evolutionary stability of legume-rhizobia symbiosis. During her postdoctoral fellowship in NIH’s Molecular Mycology and Pathogenesis Training Program at Duke University and NC State University, she examined foliar fungal endophytes and their interactions with pine hosts in the southeastern U.S. Her research aims to understand how symbiotic associations evolve, employing both genetic tools and experimental methods to study key systems like legume-rhizobia symbioses and foliar fungal endophytes.