Amanda Blazek, a West Tennessee native, has always been passionate about biology. After earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin, she joined the Department of Entomology…

Born and raised in Michigan, Allyson Dekovich moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2020 to join the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology as a master’s student. Now a PhD student…

Meher Ony, a doctoral student from Bangladesh, is dedicated to advancing our understanding of forest resources. Ony pursued a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences before joining the University of Tennessee…

After earning a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Shade Niece joined the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology (EPP) as a research assistant. After…

At a young age, Michelle Odoi developed a passion for agriculture, which has taken her across the globe. Odoi began her academic journey at the University of Ghana, where she…

Growing up in Clinton, Tennessee, Matthew Longmire has been a lifelong Volunteer, following in the footsteps of his family. In 2018, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences…

Originally from Nepal, Alina Pohkrel is pursuing a master’s degree in plant pathology. Under the mentorship of Marcin Nowicki, a research assistant professor within the department, Pokhrel focuses on invasive…

Elias Zuchelli, a graduate student studying plant pathology, was inspired by his parents’ farming legacy. From his early days on the farm, Elias learned the ropes, facing challenges head-on. With…

Meet Kassie Hollabaugh, a doctoral candidate who has dedicated her graduate studies to the art of teaching and mentoring. Originally from Warren, Pennsylvania, Hollabaugh moved to Knoxville in 2015 to…

With a passion for advocating science policy, Corey Day, a first-generation college student, channels his research to protect communities from the threats posed by vector-borne diseases. Graduating from Western Carolina…