Our research is focused on endomembrane trafficking and cellular dynamics in plant cells. We are interested in cellular mechanisms controlling cell wall formation, plant development and plant stress response. Plant cell walls play a pivotal role in growth and development, the maintenance of cell integrity, and protection against pathogens, while providing essential nutritional value as food and feed source. Uncovering mechanisms of cell wall formation can help to develop strategies for improving desired cell wall characteristics for agriculture and human health. 

Under this umbrella, we use diverse experimental systems including Arabidopsis, unicellular algae, Pistachio, Almond, Olive to examine: 1) how cell wall is assembled during cell division, cell growth, including fruit development, 2) What cellular and cell wall modifications occur during plant adaptation and response to environmental stress? Our lab integrates multidisciplinary research that includes: Biophysical modeling, genetics, chemical biology, anatomy, physiology and phenology and quantitative four- dimensional (4D) imaging., organelle proteomics and glycomics.

If you are interested in our research and like to join us in our exciting journey into the heart of plant growth and development please contact Dr. Georgia Drakakaki at gdrakakaki@ucdavis.edu or 530-752-1664, or stop by Asmundson Hall to visit our lab.