Lee Lab

Our research aims to uncover how plants sense and adapt to changing environments and to translate this knowledge into strategies for improving plant resilience. By integrating molecular genetics, systems biology, multi-omics, and quantitative phenotyping, we investigate how environmental signals—particularly high temperature—reshape gene regulation, developmental processes, and plant architecture. Our ultimate goal is to identify fundamental principles of plant adaptation and develop genetic, chemical, and computational strategies for climate-resilient crops. Investigate how elevated temperatures reshape root and shoot growth, tissue development, and resource acquisition. Leverage transcriptomic, epigenomic, metabolomic, and single-cell datasets to identify molecular states and regulatory networks controlling temperature responses. Uncover conserved genes, transcription factors, and developmental pathways that can serve as targets for improving plant performance under climate stress. Develop quantitative imaging and computational phenotyping approaches to characterize two- and three-dimensional root system architecture. Identify genetic and chemical regulators controlling root growth, branching, orientation, and environmental plasticity. Screen microbial-derived and synthetic compounds and apply genetic engineering strategies to improve root function, resource acquisition, and plant resilience. in plant environmental responses, systems biology, root development, quantitative phenotyping, and plant engineering.