From Seed Testing to Plant Breeding: Daniela Avalos-Ochoa Builds on Her STB Experience
For Daniela Avalos-Ochoa, who is known as Dani at the Iowa State University Seed Science Center, obtaining a postgraduate degree in Seed
Technology and Business meant more than just an academic accomplishment; it served as a link between her work in the laboratory, her enthusiasm for plant science, and the next phase of her career.
Dani joined the Seed Laboratory at Iowa State University in January 2022 and started her career in the Germination Laboratory, where she acquired practical experience with the Association of Official Seed Analysts Rules for Testing Seeds and learned how to assess seedlings accurately.
“That experience gave me a strong foundation in seed science and helped me grow professionally,” Dani said.
She then took on the role of coordinator of the Trait Laboratory, in charge of the testing carried out using molecular biology methods such as polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and herbicide bioassays. Among her duties has been assisting in the development and improvement of the testing procedures, training new staff members, and supporting the laboratory's quality management system.
During her time at the Seed Lab, Dani became acquainted with Iowa State's online graduate program in Seed Technology and Business. The program's multidisciplinary curriculum soon attracted her interest.
“I have always been passionate about plant science and have wanted to continue learning and growing professionally,” she said. “As I explored the curriculum, I realized it offered the opportunity to learn about many areas of seed science that I had not been exposed to before.”
The STB program supported Dani’s duties in the laboratory by linking the topics taught in class with the work she did on a daily basis and it broadened her knowledge of the seed industry beyond testing since it gave her an introduction to seed production, conditioning, strategic management, and the business decisions that influence the industry.
“The program gave me a more comprehensive view of seed production, business management and the many factors that contribute to the seed industry’s success,” Dani said. “Those experiences helped me become a more well-rounded professional and prepared me for the next stage of my career.”
Two courses were especially influential: AGRON 5110 Crop Improvement and STB/HORT 5430 Crop Physiology. With her background in horticulture, Dani found both subjects engaging and appreciated the opportunity to deepen her knowledge of plant breeding and crop development.
The work done in Crop Improvement had a particularly deep influence on the course of her career. Impressed by both the course and its instructor, Dr. Arti Singh, Dani invited Singh to join her Creative Component committee; their discussions about Dani's research interests and career objectives eventually led to her being given the chance to enter Singh's doctoral program.
“That opportunity has been one of the most meaningful milestones in my professional journey, and it all began with a class I took through the STB program,” Dani said.
Dani will use her experience from the Seed Lab and the STB program as a basis for becoming a Ph.D. candidate in plant breeding this fall 2026, with her research concentrating on field peas. She credits the STB program having strengthened her scientific foundation and having helped her to see how technical expertise and business strategy can work together in the seed industry.
“This broader perspective allowed me to connect my laboratory experience with the larger seed industry,” she said. “It strengthened my understanding of both the science and business of seeds, which made me a stronger candidate for graduate research.”
Dani advises current and future students considering the STB program to make the most of the expertise, relationships, and opportunities the program offers.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions, participate in discussions and reach out to your professors outside of class,” she said. “If you have the opportunity to meet with your professors in person, I highly encourage it.”
Those conversations, she noted, can lead to mentorship, career guidance, research opportunities and professional connections that continue long after a course ends.
“The relationships you build throughout the program can be just as valuable as the knowledge you gain in the classroom,” Dani said.
Dani’s journey illustrates how one educational experience can open unexpected doors. By combining laboratory expertise with a broader understanding of the seed industry, she is prepared to carry her passion for plant science into plant breeding and help develop crops for the future.