Meet Dr. Guy Levin, a Va’adia BARD Postdoctoral Fellow, currently hosted by Dr. Krishna Niyogi at UC Berkley.
What is the main focus of your postdoc work?
“During my Ph.D. I studied the mechanisms that protect a unique desert alga from excess light, which harms photosynthetic organisms and may lead to their death. One of our main discoveries was a massive accumulation of a protein with an unknown function, during growth under intense light conditions. Further experiments and analysis suggested that in this alga, which is one of the highest light tolerant photosynthetic organisms on the planet, this protein may have an extremely important role in the protection of photosynthesis from excess light. In my postdoc which I just started a couple of months ago, I intend to use genetic engineering tools to introduce this protein into other alga and crops, with the ultimate goal of protecting photosynthesis under unfavourable conditions and improving their growth and yield.”
What got you interested in nutrient sensing in plant growth?
“It’s photosynthesis that got me interested in plants. To me, it’s the most amazing process in nature. Using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, plants, algae, and cyanobacteria produce sugars and transform light energy into biomass, which further supports the entire food chain. As a byproduct, photosynthesis produces atmospheric oxygen (O2). This oxygen has accumulated for millions of years and allowed for the evolution of complex life forms. The truth is that without photosynthesis, we would likely not be here.”
What are your plans after your postdoctoral research?
“I hope to come back home to Israel and start my own lab, where I can expand my research and train the next generation of scientists. “
What tip would you give someone beginning their in postdoctoral research?
“Have tons of patience and go easy on yourself. The beginning is always the hardest.”