Rex Bernardo, visiting plant breeder from Minnesota, conducts training; joins Young Researchers' Lunch

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna—This month's Young Researchers' Lunch hosted Rex Bernardo (3rd from left in photo), professor of plant breeding and corn genetics at the University of Minnesota, USA. Dr. Bernardo was visiting the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) as the resource person for a one-day course on Best Practices in Marker-Assisted Plant Breeding for local scientists at IRRI, the University of the Philippines Los Baños, and partners from public and private sector organizations. He also presented Bandwagons I, too, have known at IRRI's weekly Thursday Seminar. 

During the lunch, Dr. Bernardo shared highlights of his career as a graduate student in the U.S., working in the private sector, and as a university professor. He challenged IRRI scholars to think about where they see themselves five years from now .

He advised the young researchers to take some time to enjoy and engage in fun activities outside their fields, such as a dance class, because they might not have that chance again once they start their busy careers. 

The participants were Vanica Apostol, Su Latt Phyu, Hein Zaw, Lenie Quiatchon-Baeza, and Vishnu Varthini.

The Young Researchers Lunch is a monthly gathering for IRRI scientists who are in the early stages of their career. The purpose is to provide an opportunity for discussions with senior scientists on a range of topics including science and career paths.

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