Katia Silvera, PhD
Plant Biology, Plant Physiology, Orchidology and Conservation Scientist
About me
I am an interdisciplinary scientist currently working on diverse aspects of tropical biology.
My current research focuses on elucidating the evolutionary origins of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) in orchids as a study system. I have a strong passion for teaching and mentoring students, as well as for conservation projects aimed at documenting and preserving
neotropical orchids in their habitat for future generations.
I am an Assistant Project Scientist in the Department of Botany and Plant Science Department at the University of California Riverside (UCR), and a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama.
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I am a Lecturer in the Biology Department at California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB) teaching Plant Physiology to Biology Majors, and at UCR teaching plant courses to non-major students.
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I have a BSc degree in Biology with specialization in Botany from the University of Panama (Republic of Panama), a MSc in Plant Systematics from the University of Florida (USA), and a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Nevada Reno (USA).
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In addition to my research, I also mentor students, work with orchid growers in Panama, visit herbaria around the world, and volunteer in schools as a means to disseminate my knowledge and passion for science education.​
Photo by Marcos Guerra