Blanchard Research
Group

What We Do

Research

Build genome-based models of microorganisms. A single microorganism is itself a complex system of thousands of interacting genes and their products. Using genome-based technologies we are able to measure changes in the DNA sequences and gene expression levels of all of these parts as they change in response to environmental cues and as they evolve over time. These data are then integrated in genetic and physiological models.

Develop new computational approaches. Many of our projects require the development of new computational approaches and software in order to more effectively use genomic sequence and expression data. We have developed or are developing methods for comparative genomics (Genome Flux Analysis), microarray expression data (Biological Relationship Analysis), environmental shotgun sequence data and tiling microarrays.

Apply our expertise to solving current problems. A major challenge of our time is making sustainable biofuels. Our research in this area is identifying targets and approaches for engineering microbes to more efficiently convert plant biomass to ethanol. We are also working on human health problems, including stopping oxidative damage that is as a major cause of aging and age-related diseases, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Training

Laboratories at the University of Massachusetts integrate state of the art research with programs that train the next generation of scientists. Our research group includes PhD candidates in Microbiology, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Organismal and Evolutionary Biology and some exceptional undergraduates students from the Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry and Computer Science Departments. Not only are we a melting pot of academic disciplines, but members of our group hail from the US, France, China, Russia, India and Portugal.