What is your position at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center?
I am a senior research technician in the Agroecosystems Entomology Lab at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center.
What drew you to the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center?
After completing my master’s degree at the University of Brasília and working as a technician on a large project with Helicoverpa armigera, a quarantine agricultural pest for the American continent, at Embrapa Cerrados, I had the opportunity to undertake an internship in 2017 to work on research involving the biology and natural enemies of the Western Bean Cutworm (Striacosta albicosta). Upon returning to my home country, Brazil, I worked with environmental education and on projects aimed at species conservation within Brazil's biodiversity. In 2023, I had the opportunity to return to the West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center as a senior technician, providing laboratory and field support for the numerous projects conducted in Nebraska.
What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?
Participating in different projects, with studies in controlled environments and in the field, has been of great value in my professional experience. The research environment with professionals from different countries contributes to a broad professional and personal repertoire.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I am actively involved in projects related to the Western Bean Cutworm and have significant responsibilities for experimental evaluations. This experience has allowed me to contribute to research on a pest of great importance, and I take pride in the impact my work has on advancing agricultural science
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I have always been an avid traveler. As a fun fact, I have visited the same number of states in my country and in the United States, which totals 15 in each. These experiences have taught me to appreciate the diverse environments and people, which influences my work in entomology.
What is your life like outside of work?
I enjoy being in open environments, observing nature, and being surrounded by people who care about me.
