R. J. Harrison

The Genetic Architecture of Strawberry Yield and Fruit Quality Traits

This study identifies genetic factors influencing strawberry yield and quality traits, finding a trade-off between sugar content and yield and recommending trait selection strategies for breeding.

Comparative analysis of host-associated variation in Phytophthora cactorum

This study investigates host specialization in Phytophthora cactorum by analyzing genomic and transcriptomic data from 18 isolates, identifying effector genes associated with specific host infections.

Homologues of key circadian clock genes present in Verticillium dahliae do not direct circadian programs of development or mRNA abundance.

This study identifies conserved circadian clock gene homologues in Verticillium dahliae but finds no evidence of circadian rhythms in development or gene expression, suggesting alternative mechanisms or loss of rhythmicity.

Genomics, evolutionary history and diagnostics of the Alternaria alternata species group including apple and Asian pear pathotypes

This study reports genomes of Alternaria pathotypes, defines phylogenetic relationships, and develops diagnostic tools for apple, pear, and strawberry pathogens.

Identification of powdery mildew resistance QTL in Fragaria x ananassa

This study identifies multiple QTL associated with powdery mildew resistance in strawberry, including stable and transient loci, and suggests their use in marker-assisted breeding.

Comparative genomics of Pseudomonas syringae reveals convergent gene gain and loss associated with specialisation onto cherry (Prunus avium)

The paper compares the genomes of Pseudomonas syringae strains to identify gene gains and losses linked to cherry-specific pathogenicity.

Vegetative compatibility groups explain variation in the virulence of Verticillium dahliae on strawberry

The paper investigates how vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs) influence virulence of Verticillium dahliae on strawberry, finding that VCGs are strongly related to virulence levels and that VdAve1-containing isolates show higher early virulence.