About
I am a Ph.D. student in Plant Pathology, working as a Graduate Research Assistant under Dr. Nicholas Dufault and Dr. Liliana Cano. I hold a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and a master’s degree in plant pathology, both of which I earned in the Philippines. I previously worked as an instructor and a science research assistant, which allowed me to gain experience in research, especially in diagnosing, monitoring, and isolating emerging plant diseases. OrcID: 0009-0005-6101-5200.
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Education
Ph.D. Plant Pathology, University of Florida, 2024- Present
M.S. Plant Pathology, University of the Philippines Los Banos, 2017
B.S. Agriculture, Visayas State University, 2013 -
Research
My research focuses on investigating effective aerial fungal spore sampling techniques to enable early detection of powdery mildew in watermelon caused by Podosphaera xanthii. I will also explore fungicide resistance genetic traits in fungal populations through whole genome sequencing. This project seeks to enhance disease management strategies and elucidate the mechanisms of fungicide resistance, ultimately contributing to the watermelon industry's long-term sustainability and economic viability.