Pests and pathogens contribute significantly to annual production losses. Currently, the research group focuses on the Soft Rot Enterobacteriaceae and Root Knot Nematodes (Meloidogyne spp) of potatoes. To increase productivity, accurate identification of these pathogens is essential hence one of the focus areas of the research is molecular identification of potato pathogens. Pathogens overcome host defences by interfering with various host surveillance system. Hence, we endeavour to use genomics and transcriptomics to identify bacterial virulence factors as well as elucidate host defence mechanisms being targeted by these virulence factors.