I am a Peruvian microbial ecologist interested in the interactions between microorganisms and plants. Particularly, in the mechanisms by which mutualistic interactions shape the adaptation, transformation, and resilience of vegetated ecosystems to environmental change. In order to address the role of microbes in ecosystem-level processes, I am highly interested in upscaling microbial function to the fluxes of nutrients and carbon at the ecosystem and landscape-levels. 

I received my BS in Ecology from Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, my MS in Agroecology from the University of Florida, and PhD in Biology from Georgia Tech.

As good South American, I am passionate about fútbol and good food!

I am an early career microbiologist interested in commensal and symbiotic host-microbe interactions. I was born in Havana, Cuba and raised in South Florida. My passions include education, science communication, and global public and environmental health. Currently, my study system focuses on coastal marsh plant ecophysiology. 

My research primarily aims to understand the interactions between the plant host and its associated subsurface microbiome. Specifically, I want to identify specific biotic and biotic factors that drive microbiome assembly and composition and the functional biology of core and host-specific microbial taxa. 

I obtained my BSc with a double major in Microbiology and Entomology at the University of Florida. In my undergraduate research I investigated protective phenotypes of human gut commensal bacteria in the genus Prevotella using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system, and the role of commensal bacterial volatiles in manipulating host foraging behavior in the agricultural pest Drosophila suzukii. In my free time, I enjoy reading classics, growing my insect collection, and rollerblading.  

TBD

I am originally from Chitwan, Nepal, and interested in advancing sustainable crop production. I aim to better understand how soils, plants, and microbes interacts, and how we can use that knowledge to improve agricultural sustainability in the face of global climate change.

I received my B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture from Nepal Polytechnic Institute under Purbanchal University and M.S. in Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences from the University of Florida. My graduate research focused on improving nitrogen use efficiency in tomato production systems using controlled-release fertilizers and different bed systems in sandy soils of North Florida.

Currently, I am a Research Technician at the University of Florida’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, where I am building my expertise in nutrient analysis, DNA and RNA extraction, and laboratory-based evaluations of soil and plant systems. My research interests include sustainable agriculture, nutrient management, soil health, and the ecological dynamics of plant-microbe-soil interactions. I am committed to using applied research and innovation to improve soil health and promote resilient, sustainable farming systems.

I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in environmental science, specializing in agricultural sciences, at Florida International University. I am passionate about vanilla orchids, Florida native plants, and the relationships between vanilla orchids and soil fungi. I am particularly interested in preserving vanilla orchid species and determining which ones may have commercial value. 

Working under Dr. Rolando, I hope to learn more about plant-microbe interactions and laboratory techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, nutrient analysis, and experimental design.

I enjoy making chocolate, exercising, and working with my hands