HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is expanding its neurological disease research with the addition of a new faculty investigator, Andrew Kodani, PhD. His first day with the Institute will be May 1, 2024. Dr. Kodani specializes in using human genetics to understand the fundamental basis of brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders. His lab works with clinicians around the country to identify disease-causing genetic mutations in individuals with rare neurological conditions, but they don’t stop there. They take a deeper dive into the cellular and molecular biology of those muta ..read more

When thinking of a college campus, one does not often imagine an ecologically rich forest that is home to hundreds of plant and animal species. But sitting at the heart of the University of Florida’s central campus is McCarty Woods, a 2.9-acre conservation area beloved by those on campus as well as the wider community and visitors to campus. The beautiful, species-diverse woodland is the last greenspace in the heart of campus, serving as a recreation area, research lab, and community outreach space.   Because of its prime real estate on campus, McCarty Woods has been threatened by ..read more

The beautiful, high-tech Kathy L. Chan Greenhouse is a game-changer for the plant genetics faculty at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. While there are many advanced features that help the plants grow and thrive, it is up to three talented individuals to manage the day-to-day operations of the greenhouse. Let’s meet the Kathy L. Chan Greenhouse staff and learn more about their contributions to the plant genetics research going on at HudsonAlpha. Jason Bunn – Greenhouse Manager  Tell me a little bit about your background. Where are you from? What brought you to HudsonAlpha ..read more

DCS and Houston Academy 3rd-graders celebrating National DNA Day by participating in strawberry DNA extraction DOTHAN (April 16, 2024) – Third-graders in Dothan will celebrate National DNA Day on Tuesday, April 23, by participating in a unique science experiment. More than 600 students in 10 schools will extract strands of DNA from strawberries as part of a hands-on learning experience designed to introduce the students to basic genomic concepts. Educators from HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology in Huntsville and HudsonAlpha Wiregrass in Dothan will lead the activity using supplies found ..read more

An Everyday DNA blog article Written by: Sarah Sharman, PhDIllustrated by: Cathleen Shaw   Craving a candy bar? No problem! In today’s world, indulging your sweet tooth is a breeze thanks to the abundance of processed sugar. This pantry staple has a fascinating history. Its roots trace back to sugarcane, a tall grass that produces incredibly sweet juice. Scientists and historians think sugarcane was first cultivated in New Guinea as early as 8,000 BC. As a highly valuable commodity, sugarcane cultivation spread like wildfire across continents, becoming a cornerstone of global trade. T ..read more

Many common diseases are easy to diagnose and treat, thanks to scientific advances. But for those with rare conditions, finding answers can sometimes feel impossible. Dr. Susan Hiatt and her colleagues at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology are dedicated to changing that by making diagnosis easier and faster for rare disease patients.  Susan is a Research Faculty Investigator in HudsonAlpha Faculty Investigator Dr. Greg Cooper’s lab. The Cooper lab sequences the genomes of children and adults with suspected rare genetic diseases and developmental disorders to try to find an answ ..read more

DOTHAN (March 28, 2024) – A recently released report has identified a number of tangible advantages unique to the Wiregrass region to enhance and expand innovation and entrepreneurial growth of the region’s agricultural technology (AgTech) base. Commissioned by HudsonAlpha Wiregrass as a key component of its economic development mission, the report was conducted by economic consulting firm Boyette Strategic Advisors of Little Rock, Ark. Results are Wiregrass Region-specific information, based on 2024 quantitative data, research and interviews. AgTech represents the application of technology to ..read more

HUNTSVILLE (April 1, 2024) – The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology announced that Sam Jackson, PhD, has joined its team as the Director of the Greening the Southeast (GSE) project, a National Science Foundation (NSF) Engines development award. In his new role, Jackson will lead efforts to build a coalition of research, development and commercialization partners across the region to secure NSF Regional Innovations Engines funding. Future funding through the NSF Engines program would support the advancement of the biobased economy in the region, specifically products derived from perennia ..read more

DOTHAN (March 28, 2024) – A recently released report has identified a number of tangible advantages unique to the Wiregrass region to enhance and expand innovation and entrepreneurial growth of the region’s agricultural technology (AgTech) base. Commissioned by HudsonAlpha Wiregrass as a key component of its economic development mission, the report was conducted by economic consulting firm Boyette Strategic Advisors of Little Rock, Ark. Results are Wiregrass Region-specific information, based on 2024 quantitative data, research and interviews. AgTech represents the application of tec ..read more

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Everyday DNA in Motion, a brand-new series of animated videos brought to you by the Everyday DNA team.   The Everyday DNA blog provides clear and engaging explanations of the incredible work happening at HudsonAlpha. Now, we’re taking things a step further by using the power of animation to bring those stories to life!   Everyday DNA in Motion promises to make science fun, accessible, and visually captivating. These short, animated episodes will be perfect for all ages, from curious kids to lifelong learners. We hope you enjoy the first inst ..read more