Laissa Cavallini
2024 - 2027 FFAR Fellows
Introduction
The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) is pleased to announce the seventh cohort of graduate students to be accepted to the FFAR Fellows Program.
Laissa Cavallini is a doctoral student at North Carolina State University and was selected as a FFAR Fellow studying Entomology and Plant Pathology.
Keep reading to learn more about Laissa's research and why she applied to be a FFAR Fellow.
About Me
Hometown: Santa Adelia, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Growing up in a farming family in Brazil I witnessed the negative impacts of pest and disease outbreaks in crop production. As a kid, I remember wondering what could be done to overcome these challenges. Motivated by these questions and my curiosity to understand the natural world led me to study biological sciences at Sao Paulo State University, where I learned more about pest management and sustainable agriculture.
After graduation, I pursued a M.S. degree in Entomology at Montana State University. The positive impacts of my research there with beneficial insects on wheat farming systems gave me the inspiration to continue exploring solutions that benefit farmers, the environment, and industry.
What excites me most about food and agriculture research is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the agricultural sector and the lives of farmers worldwide, including those in my own community back in Brazil.
Why the FFAR Fellows Program?
The FFAR Fellows Program is a life-changing experience that prepares fellows for diverse roles beyond academia. I was particularly interested in the program by the opportunity to improve my soft skills with the guidance of an experienced mentor from the industry.
My professional goals include working in the crop protection industry to develop innovative, sustainable pest management solutions that address both farmers' and markets’ needs. I see myself collaborating with professionals from a diverse range of fields, such as business, marketing, and product development. Improving my soft skills are key for me to excel in my career path as a leader in the sciences.
Another important aspect of this program is the chance to interact with my peers during the Annual Residential Sessions, where we can discuss the future of sustainable agriculture and advancements in the food and agriculture sector worldwide. This is a great opportunity to become a better science communicator who can effectively advocate for agricultural research and sustainability.
My Research
Thrips, an important pest complex in cotton, has exhibited resistance to various insecticides, leading to substantial economic losses in the United States. The use of a new Bt cotton (ThryvOn – Bayer) offers a more sustainable approach to control this insect pest, which aligns with my passion for environmentally responsible agriculture.
My research focuses on analyzing the relationship between thrips infestation levels with above- and belowground biomass of ThryvOn cotton. These parameters are an influential factor when plants are drought stressed — a growing concern with climate change realities.
Another aspect of my research is investigating the effects of rainfall after insecticide application. Often, farmers re-apply insecticides after rainfastness events, which can be costly and environmentally harmful. By simulating rain events in the field and assessing thrips damage, I aim to provide farmers with data-driven recommendations that optimize insecticide use, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
By integrating advanced biotechnology with practical field experiments, I hope to find solutions that are both effective and sustainable. My goal is to support farmers in making informed decisions, reduce the environmental impact of agricultural practices, and foster collaboration between researchers, farmers, and industry stakeholders.
Sponsor
Syngenta - Dr. Kevin Langdon
More About Me
Outside of my research, I enjoy traveling and exploring the outdoors with my camera. Even though I am from Brazil, I am a big fan of skiing and winter activities. I also love the days I’m inside with good movies/TV shows, great friends, and dinner parties with delicious food. On quieter days, I like to listen to music or podcasts, and read about psychology and human interactions and relationships.
