Profile

• Time Zone

  Pacific

  
  
• Organization

  University of California - Berkeley

  
  
• Role

  Scientist Mentor: I will mentor teams of students online

  
  
• Research Interests (300 words)

  Research interests include plant genetics for conservation purposes: DNA extraction, genetic sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis using computer programs. Interests include host-associated bacteria within plant leaves and general experimental design.

  
  
• Profile Question 1

  When and why did you decide to go into a science career?

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

  I was an undergraduate studying Classics when I was awarded a "Bioluminary" scholarship to work in a research position on campus. I worked in a lab studying the population genetics of a rare and endangered California native thistle, and that experience made it clear that I could contribute best to society by producing data that can quantitatively support conservation efforts.

  
  
• Profile Question 2

  What is your favorite plant? Why?

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

  I love poison oak, Toxicodendron diversilobum, because of its efficient carbon use and storage. It also discourages habitat destruction and resource exploitation where it grows. "Poison" oak or "protective" oak, it all depends on how you decide to relate to the plant personally.

  
  
• Profile Question 3

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

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

  Plants are holobionts that include functional microbial communities as a part of their complete organism. A plant is not just vegetative cells, it is a community of small and large members that operate together to navigate the world where they are planted. Since plants cannot walk to find a better living location, they make do with the tools that they have collectively and show remarkable resilience. Humans can learn a lot from how plants survive and thrive in harsh conditions!

  
  
• Availability

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

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

  1