He was trained as a basic plant molecular physiologist before joining Purdue. At Purdue he would like to use his knowledge in basic plant biology to improve the quality and productivity of crops. His research focuses on the yield improvement via the manipulation of carbon partitioning; whole plant signaling under either abiotic (mineral deficiency) or biotic (root-microbe interactions) stress; genetic engineering to increase Fe/Zn accumulation in tubers and seeds; and heat/drought stress. Crops involved in his research include maize, soybean, rice, wheat, and tomato.