Dr Zhou works on the Barley Genetics project with DPIRD and Murdoch University as part of Western Barley Genetics Alliance. This project focusses on aspects of lupin genomics and genetics, barley genetics, agronomy and quality. The research is looking at increasing grain yield and disease resistance in lupin, and malting extract, head loss and straw strength, and tolerance to stresses such as waterlogging, acid soils and salinity. Dr Zhou has a strong focus on molecular genetics with his work concentrating on lupin and barley genomics studies, including genetic map construction, marker development, variety identification and seed purity testing.