Luis Duque, Ph.D.

Research Interests

My research focuses on a better understanding of the influence of abiotic stresses on crop growth, development and yield of storage root crops, mainly Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas Lam.). In cassava, we have focused our attention in carbohydrate storage and remobilization and stress hormone fluxes during periods of prolonged water stress. In sweetpotato, we have examined plant-water relations, phenotypic plasticity, sink-source relations, and root system architecture, as well as root quality traits through the use of near-infrared spectometry. Ultimately, our research goals are to accelerate breeding efforts through the use of physiological attributes to improve crop performance and seek ways to alleviate famine and achieve food security. 

Morphometric analysis are regularly used by taxonomists, systematists, developmental biologists, morphologists, agronomists, and plant breeders. Plant organ shapes are highly variable and can be used for identifying species or genotypes, developmental patterning within and among individuals, evaluating plant health, and estimating environmental impacts on plant phenotypes. In collaboration with the Lopez-Uribe Lab at Penn State (http://lopezuribelab.com/), we are interested in characterizing how domestication processes have changed floral traits through the use of morphometrics and how those changes have affected plant ecological interactions with mutualists and antagonists. 

Past Work Experience

Research Associate, Sweetpotato Breeding and Genetics Program, Department of Horticultural Science, North Carolina State University, NC, USA

Post-doctoral Associate, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, NY, USA