Shahid Lab

We focus on the transfer, diversity, and evolution of mobile RNA elements and their role in interference and epigenetic regulation in interspecies communication (in particular host-parasitic plant communication). We use bioinformatics, genomics, molecular and synthetic biology approaches to address research questions.

Research Topics

• RNA signaling
• Small RNA
• Epigenetics
• Transposable elements

Big Questions

• How do mobile small RNAs facilitate host - parasitic plant communication?
• What are the mechanisms and role of de novo chromatin modifications in host-parasitic plant interactions?