Monica Prias-Blanco

Year of Graduation: 2021

Major Professor: Wayne Parrott

Tell us about your background prior to starting graduate work at UGA.

I was born and grew up in Ibagué, a small city in Colombia. I completed a BS degree in Biology from University of Tolima and my first research was focused on genetically transformed cassava by testing a potential promoter to improve the nutrient content of this root crop. After I graduated, I worked as a research assistant at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture-CIAT. I had the opportunity to do research in transgenic and gene-edited rice, cassava and beans for studies of gene function in disease resistance, stress resistance, androsterilty and synthesis of nutrients. 

Current occupation and job responsibilities:

I work as research assistant at the Research Center of Sugar Cane in Colombia (Cenicaña). My duties include genetic transformation of sugar cane through biolistics and molecular evaluation of transgenic events. My research goal includes validation of genes involved in water stress and resistance to plagues.

What do you do in a typical work week in your current job?

When not doing genetic transformation, which It´s a whole-day activity, I tipically do molecular evaluation of transformed events, field activities like planting and sampling, attending courses/meetings, and writing reports/research papers. 

What do you remember best/miss most about your time at UGA?

I miss all the wonderful and kind people I had the privilege to know and learn from, and the charming of the city that made me feel like home.

Do you have anything you would like to share about your family, hobbies, or other interests?

Living in the “Salsa Capital” has inspired me to learn about the salsa culture. I´ve taken salsa dance lessons and I love dancing on weekends so I can improve my dancing skills.