Victoria Y
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at North Carolina State University
Expertise
Plant Biology, Molecular Genetics, Genetics, Biochemistry
Bio
I completed my PhD in Plant Biology at North Carolina State University in 2024. Before starting my PhD I got my BS at Texas A&M University where I double majored in Biochemistry and Genetics. At Texas A&M I was recognized as an Undergraduate Research Scholar in the honors program for my research on how to genetically engineer algae for improved bioenergy traits. In my PhD I studied plant genetics and biochemistry. One of the things that make plants amazing is their ability to produce an incredible range of different chemicals that are useful to humans. My project aims to understand how we can make plants better for replacing petroleum derived products such as fuels and plastics. 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 spend as much time outside as possible. I now live and work in DC at an agricultural industry organization, where I help shape policy decision making as a science 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 primary goal as a mentor is to show my students how pursuing their love of science could positively impact the world.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 two undergraduate researchers in my lab. One of my undergraduate mentees was able to work on her own project under my guidance, and is now a PhD student in our department. During her project she learned about basic molecular biology techniques such as visualizing DNA, and manipulating DNA to make new genetic combinations for further study.Credentials
Work experience
CropLife America (2024 - Current)
Science Policy FellowEducation
Texas A&M University
BS Bachelor of Science (2017)
Biochemistry, GeneticsNorth Carolina State University
PhD Doctor of Philosophy (2024)
Plant Biology