Investigating Plant-Pest Interactions in Alfalfa

Student Name: Nikhil Jois

UCD Department: Department of Plant Sciences

UCD Mentor: Dr. Dan Putnam

Nikhil’s research involves alfalfa plants and plant-pest interactions, looking to control plant pests through the synthesis of novel phenolic compounds. It is currently hypothesized that these phenolic compounds found in plants deter pests by acting as prooxidants in the guts of the pests and causing cell damage. This work has a direct effect on forage production and pest control in an agricultural setting. The research may lead to further application in fruit and vegetable production as well