Nelson lab: As a scientist, I have long been fascinated by our ability to manipulate biological systems for our purposes, whether engineering yeast to make insulin or engineering tomatoes to withstand a longer shelf life. Since being an undergraduate, I have been motivated to be a contributing member of society by having some involvement in crop improvement. I find myself utilizing biological techniques to answer questions about plant molecular processes. However, I want to translate my knowledge into an applied system like crop improvement. This can be done through the use of synthetic plant biology. Being a part of the Plants3D program will allow me to learn how to apply my molecular research to a real-world application. It is important that this program will introduce me to members of other departments and scientists in the industry that relate basic research to crop improvement. Plants3D will give me the tools to reach across disciplines through a collaborative effort with other program members.