Meet Joseph Awwad, a BARD funded Graduate Student who conducted his research in Prof. Debernadi’s lab in UC Davis.
What is the main focus of your research?
“My research focuses on mapping the regeneration ability in barley tissue culture and understanding why some genotypes respond well to tissue culture protocols while others don’t. I look at traits like callus formation, rooting, and shooting across different barley lines to figure out what drives successful regeneration. It’s a problem that directly limits how efficient transformation and breeding programs can be.”
What got you interested in your area of research?
“To be honest, when I first started my BSc studies in Biology, I aimed towards the field of genetic engineering, but I never had plant science in mind. Luckily, I had the chance to learn more about plant science, which led me to a master’s degree in molecular plant science. However, for my PhD, I wanted to expand my knowledge to crop improvement and connect my molecular background to beneficial traits mapping. Little did I know, I ended up researching an important trait that aims to improve the process of genome editing.”
What are your plans after your fellowship?
“I’d like to continue in plant science research, ideally in a role where I can build on what I’ve learned about genotype-phenotype relationships in crop improvement. Whether that’s a postdoc, a position in a research institute, or working closer to applied breeding, as I want to stay connected to work that has an impact on how we develop and improve crops.”
What tip would you give someone beginning their Graduate Student Fellowship?
“Make sure to enjoy your time. Every research group/institute has a wide range of interesting research, so connect, hear, and make the best of it. But no less important, enjoy your personal time, the new environment, and experiences.”
