Sara Patterson

Professor Emerita of Horticulture

College of Agricultural & Life Sciences

​Sara Patterson's research group focuses on the genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry of plant development with a focus on the mechanisms that regulate cell separation and adhesion in floral organ abscission in Arabidopsis. Patterson also applies this work to economically important crops such as cold-hardy grapes and fonio (a West African orphan grain) and supports university outreach efforts in teaching plant science.

  • Developmental and genetic characterization of the abscission process and senescence in plants
  • Role and value of school and community gardens