How Bacteria-Bacteria Interactions Alter Plant-Associated Microbiome Structure
Norma Cecilia Martinez Gomez, Professor
Plant and Microbial Biology
Applications for Fall 2025 are closed for this project.
Methylotrophs are plant-associated bacteria that metabolize plant-derived methanol using lanthanide- or calcium-dependent methanol dehydrogenases. As interacting systems, methylotrophic communities form dynamic and metabolically diverse biofilms that contribute to the health of plants. However, the molecular mechanisms driving interactions between co-occurring methylotrophic symbionts remain poorly understood.
As an undergraduate research apprentice, you will participate in understanding interactions between two methylotrophic bacteria: Methylobacterium extorquens PA1 and Methylobacterium radiotolerans JCM2831. Although both strains can independently grow on methanol, JCM2831 exhibits a significant growth defect compared to PA1. Notably, JCM2831 grows more rapidly on spent media from PA1 cultured in methanol than when PA1 is grown on a multi-carbon substrate. This observation suggests that this interaction is substrate-specific. We would like to understand what secreted molecules mediate interactions between these two important plant symbionts.
This fall, we will use a technique called liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to identify molecules that PA1 releases when growing on methanol. You'll also learn how scientists modify bacterial DNA to understand gene function, and you'll help design experiments to test how different nutrient conditions affect microbial interactions.
Role: As a research apprentice, you will:
Learn how to perform sterile microbiology techniques
Use a plate reader to quantify bacterial growth
Learn to amplify DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
Practice reading and discussing scientific literature
Use R to analyze and visualize biological data
Qualifications: We are seeking a hardworking, honest, and responsible first- or second-year student. Research experience is not required, but we expect you to bring enthusiasm and integrity to the position. Students with life science or physical science majors are encouraged to apply. If you are already considering applying for a graduate degree after completing a bachelor’s degree, this is an excellent opportunity to learn about microbiology/ molecular biology research.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Aspen Pastore, Ph.D. candidate
Hours: 12 or more hours
Related website: https://martinezgomezlab.wordpress.com/research/
Biological & Health Sciences