MSc in Botany (Plant Mycology and Pathology), Tribhuvan University, Nepal, 2020 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Research Interests: <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
I am a graduate student interested in the connections between ethnobotany, plant ecology, conservation biology, and human nature relationships. My research focuses on Ficus religiosa<\/em> (Bodhi tree) and Himalayan ethnobotanical knowledge in Nepal. Exploring how traditional knowledge, Buddhist philosophy, and ecological science can support biodiversity conservation and human wildlife coexistence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am interested in the phytochemical diversity of Ficus religiosa<\/em> across native and introduced populations, examining how environmental factors influence bioactive compounds in different plant parts from different landscape (Nepal\/Oregon). Through ethnobotanical research, laboratory approaches, and community-based conservation, I explore the relationships between medicinal plants, cultural values, and ecosystem stewardship. I am also interested in the role of local knowledge, women\u2019s participation (Gender roles), and spiritual traditions in creating inclusive conservation practices in the Himalayas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positionality Statement: <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
I am a Nepali woman conservation practitioner and researcher with a background in plant science, community-based conservation, and gender equality and social inclusion (GESI). I hold a Master\u2019s degree in Botany specializing in Plant Mycology and Pathology and have research experience at Tribhuvan University studying plant fungal interactions, invasive plant species, and ecological changes in Nepal. I have also worked as a Conservation Officer and GESI Officer at the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), contributing to biodiversity conservation and community engagement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
My experiences working with local communities and diverse landscapes in Nepal have shaped my understanding that conservation is deeply connected with culture, livelihoods, and traditional knowledge. As a researcher, I aim to bridge scientific approaches with local ecological knowledge and spiritual perspectives while promoting ethical collaboration, respect for communities, and inclusive conservation practices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Kaylene Abraham<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Master’s Student, Crop and Soil Science (Co-advised)<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Research Interests:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Stepping into the natural world, my mind is in awe at the symphony of species, lush landscapes, and ingenuity found throughout our universe. This passion is what brought me to be a Masters student at OSU. An ecologically informed pest-management system is being generated which aims to use nematodes (Phasmarhabditis = Pelioditis<\/em> spp.) to suppress pest slugs in agricultural fields. There\u2019s potential to complement native biology because these two organisms are natural enemies, yet high risks are at stake when considering the development and release of biological control organisms. My research delves into the potential unintended impacts to native fauna (e.g. Pacific Banana Slug or Pacific Sideband Snail) in their natural ecology. I\u2019m excited to cultivate a scientific toolkit rich in field work and with themes in conservation!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
I am currently working on the parasitic symbiosis between terrestrial gastropods and Pellioditis <\/em>nematodes investigating the potential impacts on gastropod populations native to the Pacific Northwest if these nematodes were utilized to control pest gastropods in commercial and home gardens. My work is influenced by my desire to better understand anthropogenic threats to biodiversity and how interactions shape ecosystems. Given the interconnectivity between organisms, it is important to me that I view this symbiotic relationship as a complete system and also from both the gastropod and nematode sides independently. More specifically, I am looking into how gastropods and nematodes detect and respond to the presence of one another. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positionality Statement: <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
I am a white woman who grew up on the West Coast of the United States and have been heavily influenced by traditional Western approaches to science and ethics. I recognize that my identity and past experiences impact the work that I am able to do and shape the lens in which I observe the world through. I am committed to incorporating diverse perspectives and approaches into my research and actively building relationships with individuals and communities impacted or interested in my work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I recently completed my M.S. in Integrative Biology at Oregon State University, where I studied interactions between parasitic nematodes (Pellioditis<\/em> spp.) and their molluscan hosts. My thesis research investigated how nematodes used as biocontrol agents against agricultural pests such as the gray field slug (Deroceras reticulatum<\/em>) infect a non-target species, the Pacific banana slug (Ariolimax columbianus<\/em>). I also explored how ethical frameworks can inform the treatment of experimental animals, particularly invertebrates, drawing on Buddhist philosophy and contemplative practice to examine alternative approaches to ethical research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I currently support ongoing projects in the lab as a research assistant while exploring opportunities to apply my scientific training beyond OSU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positionality statement:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
I am a 26-year old biracial woman who works with native gastropod species and biocontrol nematodes in the Pacific Northwest, while incorporating Buddhist practice and ethical study in my research. I grew up in the American Midwest, without any previous context in Buddhism or ethical studies. My perspective is largely influenced by my Western background and traditional Western approach to science.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am a PhD candidate in the Department of Integrative Biology studying the medicinal Ganoderma<\/em> mushroom complex in Oregon and Nepal. Ganoderma <\/em>mushrooms are known for their antitumor and anti-aging effects and have been used in traditional Asian medicines for thousands of years. My work ranges from multi-locus genetic and genomic approaches that explore medicine, identity, and evolution in the Ganoderma <\/em>genome, to ethnomycological research focusing on the sociocultural role of this mushroom in the foothills of the Nepal Himalayas. I recently completed a ten-month Fulbright fellowship in Nepal to conduct this work. I am currently working on ethnomycological and genomic analyses towards the completion of my dissertation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positionality Statement:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
My work involves traditional medicinal knowledge and communication across culture and language. As a white American woman who grew up in a privileged space, I acknowledge that my identity brings forth biases in both how I conduct my work and how I am perceived while doing it. As a researcher, I bring forward years of life experience both within and outside academic institutions. My life path has motivated me to approach this research with intentionality and discourse on ethics, biases, and reciprocal relationships. I am committed to continuous reflection and welcome feedback on my research methodology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am a transdisciplinary researcher, studying the ethnobiology, invasive ecology and genetics of the sacred Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa<\/em>). I do fieldwork in their invasive and native ranges, including the US, Nepal and Hawaiian Islands. I am interested in the impact that the Bodhi tree has in invasive areas, as well as the tree\u2019s interaction and influence on the surrounding religious communities. I have a special interest in art, especially in Buddhist art, and how that may have a role in the research I conduct. I am also making efforts to study contemplative approaches to Biology and finding ways to incorporate intentional and ethical methodology into my research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positionality Statement:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
My work involves research surrounding Buddhism, Indigenous perspectives of invasive species, the sacredness of the Bodhi tree in south and east Asian countries, and the impact of the Bodhi tree in the Hawaiian Islands. I am a queer, white American woman who grew up in a culturally mixed space that did not have naturally growing Bodhi trees. This has and will influence the way I interpret my research and work. I make sincere efforts to incorporate the perspectives of the people who live in the area of study as I do my research, especially those who are impacted directly by the Bodhi tree-fig wasp system that I work with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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