Profile

• Time Zone

  (GMT +1) Paris, Madrid, Athens, Berlin, Rome

  
  
• Organization

  Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)

  
  
• Role

  Scientist Mentor: I will mentor teams of students online

  
  
• Research Interests (300 words)

  Plants cannot move therefore i am much interested in how plants respond to tough situations like extreme weather or pathogen attack. I'm especially interested in tiny molecules called miRNA, which are like the plant's secret messengers. These miRNA molecules help plants adapt and protect themselves when things get challenging. It's like plants have their own superhero code to survive and thrive in a changing world, and I'm trying to understand how these tiny messengers play a big role in their survival strategy. miRNAs are like small molecules but big imapct.

  
  
• Do you have previous experience in mentorship or educational outreach? Please list here (200 words)

  (not set)

  
  
• Which of the following best describes your career stage?

  Postdoctoral Researcher

  
  
• Profile Question 1

  Do you have advice for students about preparing for a science career?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 1 here (300 words):

  Preparing for a science career requires cultivating key qualities like patience and curiosity. Patience is crucial as scientific research involves time-consuming processes, and setbacks are part of the journey. Curiosity is the driving force behind scientific inquiry, propelling you to explore diverse subjects and seek answers. Additionally, building a strong foundation in science subjects, gaining hands-on experience, staying informed, developing critical thinking skills, and seeking mentorship are essential steps for success. Science careers offer the chance to make exciting discoveries, contribute to knowledge, and positively impact society—embracing these qualities can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding journey in the scientific field.

  
  
• Profile Question 2

  What is the coolest thing you have discovered or learned about plants?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 2 here (300 words):

  Plants have a silent language, and to truly appreciate their secrets, one must become an efficient listener to the whispers of nature.

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 3 here (300 words):

  The best aspect of being a scientist is the sheer fascination of exploring the unknown, knowing that there are countless questions waiting to be answered. It's the exhilarating journey of discovery, the pursuit of knowledge, and the opportunity to contribute to our understanding of the world. Moreover, the sense of purpose in knowing that scientific endeavors are often aimed at improving the well-being of mankind through advancements in medicine, technology, and our understanding of the natural world, makes being a scientist a truly rewarding and meaningful profession.

  
  
• Help represent the outreach efforts of your societies. Please click all those organizations you are a member of:

  American Society of Plant Biologists

  
  
• How did you hear about PlantingScience?

  Twitter

  
  
• Availability

  I am currently available for mentoring, please send me team match invitations

  
  
• Preferred Student Level(s)

  Elementary School Students (5th grade)
  Middle School Students (Grades 6,7,8)

  
  
• Preferred Investigation Themes

  Genetics in Arabidopsis (investigation with a model species to track transmission of traits)
  The Power of Sunlight (photosynthesis and respiration)
  The Wonder of Seeds (seed germination and growth)
  Agronomy Feeds the World (where does food come from?)
  Plants Get Sick, Too!

  
  
• Challenge, ELL, Honors

  Academically Challenged
  ELL - English language learners

  
  
• In addition to English, I am comfortable communicating with students in the following languages:

  None of the Above

  
  
• Videoconference Ability

  Yes

  
  
• Capacity: How many teams at a time are you comfortable working with?

  2