Laura studied biological engineering at Purdue University and focused on bioenvironmental and agricultural applications while working with the USDA National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory to analyze nutrient loads in soil, water, and plants. During an internship with Corteva Agriscience, Laura worked with Bt traits and western corn rootworm- becoming familiar with Midwest field work and gaining interest in entomology. A more recent experience with BASF allowed Laura to gain valuable industry experience with a chemical company and learn about pesticide considerations for corn and soybeans.
At WSU, Laura is very excited to join the Northfield lab and begin modeling research relating to X-disease and leafhoppers. She is looking forward to getting acquainted with the PNW insects and tree fruits. She hopes to learn all she can from those at the TFREC and to improve her writing and critical thinking skills along the way to become a better researcher and communicator.
