Meet Sanjay Joshi of the University of Kentucky. The Nepali national is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences and a graduate research assistant in Prof. Sharyn Perry’s lab. He is on campus for the first time, training at the Frontiers & Techniques in Plant Science course and is interested in returning for our Programming for Biology course.

What are your research interests? What are you working on?
I am interested in understanding the development of plants. The knowledge in plant growth and development can be utilized in improving the productivity of crops. Currently, I am working on understanding the gene regulation in seed embryogenesis in Arabidopsis.

How did you decide to make this the focus of your research?
After completing my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (Israel). The unique experience allowed me to learn innovative science and technologies, and exposed me to different agriculture (compared to what I was accustomed to in Nepal). I did my masters research on the post-harvest management of apples -- but from a molecular perspective -- which inspired and opened an entirely new window into agriculture as a whole. I became fascinated with understanding new techniques and methods related to genes and proteins which I can eventually apply to improving the productivity and sustainability of plants.

How did your scientific journey begin?
Having grown up in the countryside of Nepal where farming is the main profession, I was into growing crops since my childhood. My interest in gaining knowledge on cultivating crops through a systematic and scientific approach led me to join the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Sciences in Chitwan, Nepal for my undergraduate studies. I always enjoyed doing experiments and liked finding solutions.

Was there something specific about the Frontiers & Techniques in Plant Science course that drew you to apply?
When I read the course curriculum and the labs techniques, I was excited since this course can help me in understanding plant biology better and learning new techniques like TRAP, INTACT, CRISPR. It is providing me with an opportunity to be exposed to different flavors and aspects of research in the plant world. 

What and/or how will you apply what you’ve learned from the course to your work?
This course has certainly changed my views on research and experiments; encouraging and motivating me to incorporate new techniques in my research – such as the TRAP method – so that I can explore at a new level.

I am happy to share my experience and techniques learned here to my colleagues in my institution.

What is your key takeaway from the course?
The plant science field is evolving. A large number of interesting things have been discovered yet a big portion of plant biology is still a mystery. Newly emerging techniques and tools will enable us to answer questions that have yet to be addressed.

If someone curious in attending this course asked you for feedback or advice on it, what would you tell him/her?
I would encourage and recommend the Frontiers & Techniques in Plant Science course to all my friends and colleagues interested in plant science. It is an excellent platform for learning and professional development;. providing exposure to both theoretical and practical demonstrations which enhance your professional skills.  This course also gives you the opportunity to meet many renowned scientists in the plant field thereby helping you join the community and build a network.

What do you like most about your time at CSHL?
CSHL is a wonderful place to live, with a peaceful ambiance and greenery all around. I have a lot of happy and fun memories to take home from this course, and loved all the social events thoroughly:. the scavenger hunt, course picnic, the totally relaxing and enjoyable sailing trip, having ice cream after the sailing trip, and hosting the fly course at the totally entertaining Venus flytrap party.

Sanjay received financial support from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and Regeneron to cover a portion of his course tuition. On behalf of Sanjay, thank you to NSF and Regeneron for supporting and enabling our young scientists to attend a CSHL course where they expand their skills, knowledge, and network.

Thank you to Sanjay for being this week's featured visitor. To meet other featured scientists - and discover the wide range of science that takes part in a CSHL meeting or course - go here.