Fernando Velaquez

Graduate Student 
Department of Plant Biology

Research Interests
I am interested in plant and human pathology, particularly how chemicals, proteins, and genes interact to influence disease. I want to use metabolomics and genomics to better understand these relationships and connect that knowledge to practical approaches for disease management. My interests also extend to disease processes in the human body and how studying chemical–protein interactions can support drug discovery.

Current research
My practical research centers on molecular and analytical techniques, including DNA extraction, plant characterization, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, and biochemical assays. In mint, I contribute to research on powdery mildew resistance through plant crossing and molecular and chemical approaches. In cilantro, I help characterize leaf traits and improve DNA extraction methods. My analytical work also includes studying compounds in lion’s mane and reishi mushrooms.

Role in the lab
I contribute to experimental preparation, method development, troubleshooting, and data analysis. I also support undergraduate students by preparing accessible protocols that explain both the experimental steps and their purpose, helping them build confidence and understanding through hands-on research.