Dr. Allen Miller | Deciphering plant RNA virus genomes across the decades
Dr. Miller has always viewed the virus from the point of view of its RNA genome: a remarkable molecule that compresses all the regulatory information and protein coding sequence into the bare minimum of sequence sufficient to allow the virus to take over the cell. Dr. Miller’s presentation will focus on how we have studied what the genomes of RNA viruses (the vast majority of all plant viruses) do, from the 1980s, when manual sequencing was in its infancy, to the current era of routine high throughput sequencing. Using barley yellow dwarf virus as his main example, he will describe how the RNA genome coordinates the conflicting roles of genome replication, mRNA synthesis, and protein synthesis via its sequence and secondary structure. He will also discuss how the recent explosion in new virus discovery via next generation sequencing has radically altered virology from gene expression studies to our understanding of the global virome. Finally, he will provide examples of his own personal experience and growth as a scientist to share advice on what to do and what not to do to achieve a satisfactory career in science.
Yen-Wen Kuo | From research questions to lessons learned: reflections on a career in Plant Virology thus far
In this talk, I will share an overview of the research conducted in my lab, which focuses on the molecular and ecological interactions among plant viruses, their vectors, and host plants. Using examples from my own work, I will reflect on how specific research questions have evolved over time and how the process of pursuing them has shaped my scientific perspective. As an early-career scientist, I will also discuss lessons learned along the way—about overcoming challenges, mentorship, and navigating the unexpected paths that research can take. Together, these experiences highlight how curiosity-driven inquiry and open-mindedness continue to guide my approach to plant virology today.
