` ||-Interdepartmental Genetics Program - Iowa State University-||

Interdepartmental Genetics Graduate Program - M.S./Ph.D.

Name: Ruth Swanson-Wagner

PhD Candidate in Schnable Lab since 2004
Hometown: St. Paul, Minnesota
Undergrad: St. Mary's University of Minnesota (B.S. Biology)
Extracurricular Activities: Attending sporting events, concerts and movies in Ames and in Des Moines, sewing/quilting, participating in a book club, and spending time with my husband and dog.
I chose to come to Iowa State University for graduate school because of the excellent research in plant genetics and the importance of agriculture to the state of Iowa. Ames is a great place for students and is in close proximity to larger cities such as Des Moines, Chicago, and Minneapolis/St. Paul.
The focus of my research is to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the phenomenon of heterosis in maize. We have conducted various microarray experiments were used to detect differentially expressed genes in hybrids relative to its inbred parents and have also detected genome regions regulaitng gene expression in inbreds and hybrids.
Upon graduation, I plan to remain in the maize genetics research community.

Genetics Graduate Program

Interdepartmental Genetics Graduate Program, 2102 Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-3260.
Phone 515-294-7697 or 1-800-499-1972 | Fax 515-294-6669 | genetics @iastate.edu

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identifty, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. veteran. Inquiries can be directed to the Director of Equal Opportunity and Diversity, 3680 Beardshear Hall, (515) 294-7612.