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Elena M.

Team Member at Cornell University

Hometown: Naperville, IL

She/her/hers

Graduate Program

Graduate Program: Plant Biology, PhD

Anticipated Graduation Date: 2020

Undergraduate

Institution: Michigan State University

Major: Plant Biology; Genomics & Molecular Genetics


My Background

I have a background in gardening and plant work and have always been interested in molecular biology. I decided to combine these two passions and my love for research by pursuing a PhD!

Why I chose Cornell

Cornell is a robust and diverse research community where collaboration and idea sharing is encouraged! I was impressed with the caliber of research and opportunities for personal and professional development, as well as the support network across fields.

My research interests

I'm interested in understanding basic molecular and biochemical systems within plants, and how this information could be applied to improve plant growth and food production in an industry setting.

My experience at Cornell

I have enjoyed finding a supportive community of graduate students across fields and backgrounds who are all interested in the same thing: improving diversity & inclusion within academia and the graduate student experience.

My advice for those exploring graduate school

Talk to as many current graduate students as possible for their opinions on what the climate is at their graduate school and in their research groups. Talk through your research interests with mentors to refine them before reaching out to potential future advisors.

I'm passionate about...

Cooking and Baking Gardening

I'm involved with...

qGrads Student Diversity Council
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