Donna M. Maki - Department of Biology

Weston Hall 2013
Phone (906) 227-2443
Email: donmaki@nmu.edu

• B.A., Biology, Northern Michigan University
• Ph.D., Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University
• Research Associate, Plant Pathology, University of Minnesota

Research in my lab involves the study of plant-microbe interactions. The overarching theme involves investigating the microbial ecology of plant-associated microbes and applying that knowledge to improve plant growth. We are primarily focusing on rhizosphere microbes, particularly Streptomyces bacteria and ectomycorrhizal fungi, for their ability to stimulate Pinus resinosa (red pine) seedling growth and increase the ability of the seedling to tolerate environmental or biotic stresses. We are also studying other Streptomyces bacteria for their abilities to inhibit the potato scab disease pathogen, Streptomyces scabies. Other projects have involved isolating and identifying yeast species coexisting on plants, investigating novel plant tissue culture techniques, and examining the impact of aquatic plants on survival of Escherichia coli in lakes.

• BI 100  Biological Science
• BI 230  Plant Kingdom
• BI 303  General Microbiology
• BI 391  Laboratory Experience
• BI 402  Microbial Ecology
• BI 431  Plant Physiology
• BI 498  Directed Studies in Biology
• BI 499  Internship
• BI 589  Research in Biology
• BI 598  Directed Studies in Biology
• BI 599  Thesis in Biology

• Kinkel, L.L., and Becker, D.M.  2000.  Actinomycetes.  In:  Encyclopedia of Plant Pathology, O.C. Maloy and  T.D. Murray, eds.  John Wiley and Sons, NY. 
• Becker, D. M., and Kinkel, L. L.  1999.  Strategies for quantitative isolation of Streptomyces from soil for studies of pathogen ecology and disease biocontrol.  In: Recent Research Developments in Microbiology, Research Signpost, Trivandrum, India  3:349-362.
• Becker, D. M., Podila, G. K., and Bagley, S. T.  1999.  Effects of mycorrhizal-associated streptomycetes on gene expression in Laccaria bicolor, and on growth of Laccaria bicolor, Cenococcum geophilum,and Armillaria species.  Mycologia 91:33-40.
• Becker, D. M., Kinkel, L. L., and Schottel, J. L.  1997.  Evidence for interspecies communication and its potential role in pathogen suppression in a naturally-occurring disease suppressive soil.  Can. J. Microbiol.  43:985-990.