Katia Silvera, PhD
Plant Biology, Plant Physiology, Orchidology and Conservation Scientist
About me
I am an interdisciplinary plant 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 Professor in the Department of Biology at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), and a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama.
I am passionate about teaching undergraduate biology and plant science courses and mentoring students in my lab. I particularly enjoy providing students with opportunities to develop as scientists through hands-on research.
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).
In addition to my research and teaching, 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