I won the AWARD Advanced Science Training (AST) opportunity and was awarded a placement at DuPont Pioneer in collaboration with Iowa State University (ISU) in the USA. The training I am undertaking will significantly improve my skills, experience and knowledge in the use of modern biotechnology for crop improvement to contribute to food security and improved livelihoods. While at DuPont, I am privileged to be mentored by two leading women scientists in this field, Prof. Maria Salas-Fernandez from the Department of Agronomy, at ISU and Dr. Laura Higgins from DuPont.

I left Kenya for my research adventure in June 2015; this being my first time in America. Barely two weeks at ISU, had I gained extensive knowledge and skills in environmental health and safety. The knowledge has helped me become more adept in the molecular laboratory and out in the field.