Victoria Y
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at North Carolina State University
Expertise
Plant Biology, Molecular Genetics, Genetics, Biochemistry
Bio
I am currently a 4th year PhD candidate in Plant Biology at North Carolina State University. Before starting my PhD I got my BS at Texas A&M University where I double majored in Biochemistry and Genetics. I was also recognized as an Undergraduate Research Scholar for my research on how to genetically engineer algae to make biofuel. In my PhD I study plant genetics and biochemistry. Plants are amazing because they can produce an incredible range of different chemicals that are very useful to humans. My project aims to understand how we can make plants better for making biofuel that we can use to replace the petroleum gas in our cars, and fuel for our planes. A significant part of my work involves genetically engineering plants to understand how their genes work. When I'm not working in the lab I make pottery, ride my bike, and lead a science policy club. I believe that the world would be a better place if scientists played a bigger role in political decision making. After I finish my PhD I would like to work for a government agency or a political action organization as a scientific advisor. Through my mentoring I hope to guide students through thinking scientifically and developing robust experimental designs, but also navigating the first steps in a scientific career. My biggest goal as a mentor is to show them how much of a positive impact they can have on the world through pursuing their love of science.Project ideas
Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.
Coffee Plant Growth Conditions and Taste Profiles
Coffee beans grown in different regions of the world have distinct taste profiles. There are many factors that likely contribute to these differences such as the genetics of the plants grown, soil conditions, and weather patterns of the region. Through comparing these factors, and inferring possible biochemical differences, we can then link variations in coffee taste to specific plant growth conditions. To demonstrate the results of the project we can build a digital tool that would allow users to "design" a coffee farm given their own taste preferences.
Languages I know
Italian, intermediate (receptive advanced); french, receptive intermediateTeaching experience
I led a semester long plant biology lab for undergraduates at North Carolina State University, and I also mentored a undergraduate researcher in my lab. My undergraduate mentee was able to work on her own project under my guidance, and is now a PhD student in our department. During her project my mentee learned about basic molecular biology techniques such as visualizing DNA, and manipulating DNA to make new genetic combinations for further study.Credentials
Education
Texas A&M University
BS Bachelor of Science (2017)
Biochemistry, GeneticsNorth Carolina State University
PhD Doctor of Philosophy candidate
Plant Biology