Research

Genomics

Genomics is the study and related techniques of identifying genes and gene functions of an organism. The complete genome sequencing of Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) and a devastating plant pathogenic fungus Macrophomina phaseolina was done under this project. There are ongoing research programs using the genome data of these two organisms.

Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is the analysis of biological information using computers and statistical techniques, the science of developing and utilizing computer databases and algorithms to accelerate and enhance biological research. Bioinformatics is more of a tool than a discipline, the tools for analysis of Biological Data.

Current projects are-

• Development of genome assembly and annotation pipeline

• Bioinformatics hub development

• Protein network construction

Host-pathogen interaction

Jute crop is liable to be attacked by various diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses and nematodes from seedling to mature stage. All parts of the plant-body are subjected to attack and yield as well as the quality is affected greatly by the pathogens. BARJ has various projects to study the organisms and their interaction with jute physiology. Macrophomina phaseolina is a devastating fungus for jute, causes heavy loss of yield and affects quality. The whole genome sequencing of this fungus was successfully done at BARJ and it will help to reveal the molecular aspects of its attack on jute and ultimately to develop a jute variety resistant to this fungus. Isolation, culture and stereomicrograph study  of jute disease related microbes are regularly done in this lab.