Nicole Mihelich

I am interested in breeding and genetics/genomics for crop improvement, especially in settings that work toward more sustainable agricultural solutions. I am also interested in how polyploidy influences phenotypic traits and the challenge of tackling complex genomes. For my Ph.D., I am working toward improving fine fescue cool-season grass species as a low-input turfgrass, specifically for sod production. I am focusing on rhizome production and tillering traits that may be key in horizontal spread and rapid establishment of sustainable sod.