ProfessorColin Turnbull

Research Overview 
We work on genes and signals in plant defence and development, and on how insects pests such as aphids interact with their plant hosts. In particular, we exploit proteomics and transcriptomics in combination with the widespread availability of mutants and transgenics. For plant defence against aphids, we are particularly interested in genomics (Thorpe et al. 2024), effector functions (Lopez-Cobollo et al. 2025), genetics and diversity of both pest virulence and host resistance (Kanvil et al. 2014a, 2014b) and phloem defences against aphids (Kanvil et al. 2017). We have also invested time in developing tools for studying signalling, especially micro-grafting, sap sampling and cell-type profiling in Arabidopsis. We have published on both phloem (Corbesier et al. 2007; Truman et al. 2007; Zhang et al. 2010; Lopez-Cobollo et al. 2016) and xylem (Foo et al. 2007) systems. 

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CURRENT GRANTS
Functions of a novel chitinase-like effector family unique to aphids (BBSRC 2023-2026)

Can plant-fungal symbioses underpin plant diversity? (NERC 2022-25; Vincent Savolainen [PI], Martin Bidartondo)

COMPLETED GRANTS
The molecular and genetic basis of aphid virulence (BBSRC 2016-2019; with Jorunn Bos, Dundee University)

Controlling dormancy and sprouting in potato and onion (BBSRC Horticulture and Potato Initiative 2013-2017; with James Hutton Institute, Cranfield University and Greenwich University)

The molecular and genetic basis of aphid virulence (BBSRC 2016-2019; with Dundee University)

Disentangling the mechanisms of ecological speciation in sympatric palm species (NERC 2015-2018; led by Vincent Savolainen)

The lab's main focus is plant-aphid interactions: inheritance and characterisation of effectors and resistance genes, mechanisms of immune activation and immune suppression, and climate change impacts on plant immunity.