The Department of Plant Pathology recently hosted a symposium showcasing the work of its students and postdoctoral associates. The inaugural Plant Pathology Research and Professional Development Symposium provided “a valuable platform for students and postdocs to practice their presentations before they travel to present their research” at national and international meetings and conferences, said Dr. Mathews Paret, Plant Pathology department chair.
The event, organized by students and postdocs with support from department administrative staff, attracted more than 100 attendees. Students and postdocs from across the state presented posters and delivered oral presentations to an audience of UF faculty and administrators, and government and industry scientists.
“The symposium’s program was developed by a committee of students and postdocs that incorporated content that was important to them,” said Dr. Erica Goss, who guided the students and postdocs through the process. “It was wonderful to hear about the breadth of research in the department and from students and postdocs located across the state.”
“I consider the symposium a resounding success,” said Dr. Pei-Ling Yu, a postdoctoral associate who helped organize the event. “The collaborative efforts of faculty, students, postdocs, and staff ensured its seamless execution. Learning how to attract sponsors, invite speakers, and organize the symposium was a valuable experience.”
Student presenters were awarded for the best abstracts, poster presentations and oral presentations (scroll down for a list of winners). Said Dr. Paret: “The confidence that students and postdocs develop by presenting at this event, and gathering inputs from their own colleagues has the potential to improve their research communication skills.”
————-
FPS Travel Award (abstract): Galvin Alonso
FPS Travel Award (abstract): Roger Ramirez
Poster Presentation First Place: Sameerika Mudiyanselage
Poster Presentation Second Place: Rachel Kalicharan
Oral Presentation First Place (tie): Roshni Panwala
Oral Presentation First Place (tie): Berea Etherton
Oral Presentation Second Place: Galvin Alonzo
2
