Alison Fisher

Professional Interests

I'm an environmental biochemist interested in the production of volatile organic compounds by plants. My lab uses a wide range of experimental techniques (RT-qPCR, classic protein chemistry, gas chromatography, cDNA cloning techniques, and, most recently, confocal microscopy) to understand the biosynthesis, regulation, and biological roles of some of the abundant volatile organic compounds produced by plants. Current projects include (1) the role of the volatile plant hormone ethylene (ethene) in regulating the timing of flowering in Arabidopsis thaliana (thale cress) and Ipomoea nil 'Violet' (Japanese morning glory) plants, and (2) biosynthesis of isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) in Campylopus introflexus (heath star moss).

Personal Interests

Biking, skiing, sustainable living, baking, science outreach, and being a mom to two amazing kiddos