Lina Bernaola

LBernaolaLina Bernaola was born in Lima, Peru. She attended the San Marcos National University, where she got her B.S. in biological sciences and a minor in molecular biology. Her professional experience, as well as her passion in the world of plants, began when she joined the International Potato Center (CIP) in Lima to perform her undergraduate thesis. Based on this experience, Lina joined Louisiana State University to pursue her M.S. in agronomy and crop sciences. Her thesis research focused on utilization of molecular markers in assessing genetic diversity in smooth cordgrass and sugarcane. Currently, she is working on her PhD in the Department of Entomology at LSU. Her research project involves investigations of the mechanistic basis of plant resistance against above-ground and below-ground organisms in rice. Primarily, she studies the effects of mycorrhizal fungi, a symbiotic soil-borne organism, on rice resistance to insect herbivores. The ultimate goal of Lina’s research is to help to develop more effective pest management programs in rice. Lina has been actively involved in the Entomological Society of America since 2013. She has presented her research at several national and Southeastern Branch meetings, and has participated on LSU’s Debate team. Her leadership roles within ESA include serving as student representative of the P-IE Governing Council and Student Affairs Committee of the Southeastern Branch-ESA. She is a member of the LSU Entomology Club, also having served as vice president and president. She enjoys conducting educational outreach about insects to kids with the Entomology Club. 

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