Our research program is focused on understanding molecular processes involved in the decomposition of plant material, particular the recalcitrant structures in the plant cell wall. This research has important implications for developing climate change research, cellulosic biofuels and animal health and nutrition. A prominent component of our research is using genomic and computational methods to understand variation in molecular processes. Our laboratory is set up for standard molecular biology and microbial physiology research and contains specialized equipment for working with anaerobic bacteria. Below are descriptions of our current funded project areas.