From Animal planet to Plant Genetics: Julia Talbert’s Journey at UMSL
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Long before she stepped into a university lab, Julia Talbert was captivated by the wonders of the natural world.As a child, while other kids spent their Saturday mornings glued to cartoons, Julia was tuned into the captivating world of Animal planet. This early passion for science and animals, initially leading her to dream of becoming a veterinarian, blossomed into a deep fascination with genetics during a high school biology class.
Driven by this newfound interest,Julia embarked on her own independent research,delving deeper into the complexities of genetic diseases. It was during this time she discovered the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). The renowned Department of Biology, coupled with the affordability of the institution, especially through scholarships like the Chancellor’s scholarship and the Proud to be First Scholarship, solidified UMSL as the perfect place for Julia to pursue her passion. The unique, discussion-based habitat offered by the pierre Laclede Honors College further solidified her decision.
As Julia progressed through her biology coursework,her enthusiasm for genetics only intensified. “After getting into university, when we went even further into depth [into genetics], that curiosity really blossomed even more,” she reflects. “It felt right. I felt like this is where I needed to be, what I wanted to do, and it was a passion that definitely blossomed.”
A Budding Geneticist Finds Her Lab
This burgeoning passion led Julia to the lab of Dr. Bethany Zolman, an associate professor and chair of the Department of Biology. Drawn to Dr. Zolman‘s expertise in plant genetics, Julia began seeking her guidance during class, eventually joining her research team. Julia’s first project involved a collaboration with dr. Lon Chubiz’s microbiology lab, exploring the impact of WBG-1, a recently discovered soil bacteria, on the development of Arabidopsis thaliana, a small, fast-growing member of the mustard family.
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Julia dedicated almost a semester to refining the project’s methodology, including the timeline and growth media. Frustration mounted as several experiments were ruined due to contamination from mold or other bacteria. Undeterred, Julia persevered.After months of dedicated work,she was able to demonstrate that the bacteria didn’t appear to have any effect on the plant.
In Spring 2024, Julia presented her groundbreaking research at UMSL’s annual Undergraduate Research Symposium.Her work garnered well-deserved recognition, earning her an award for best poster content.
From Lab to Field: A Passion for Plant Science Takes Root
From her early days studying plant mutations to her current work at the cutting edge of sorghum research, Bria Talbert’s journey is fueled by a deep desire to make a difference. A recent graduate of the University of Missouri–St. Louis, Talbert found her passion for plant science unexpectedly blossoming during her undergraduate studies. While initially hesitant about working with plants, Talbert’s experience in the zolman Lab, studying the phenotypes caused by genetic mutations, changed everything. Inspired by professors and teaching assistants who spoke highly about the Danforth Plant Science Center, she landed a coveted research assistant position in the Shakoor Lab upon graduation. “The goal of this lab is specifically to increase the yield of sorghum, to make it more effective especially as a food source for people who need it, and also animals,” Talbert explained. “another big thing we’re also working on is being able to create a plant that is able to reduce carbon emissions by taking in more carbon from the air and reversing the effects of climate change.” the Shakoor Lab’s mission deeply resonates with Talbert. “That’s the reason why I wanted to go to the danforth – I really love their mission about wanting to help people and to improve science,” she said. “I love all that they do to give back to St. Louis and this area. It was just something I wanted to be a part of. That’s the kind of impact I want to leave.” Her role at the Danforth Center’s field research site in St. Charles involves extensive fieldwork. Every day, Talbert meticulously collects data, measuring plant height and diameter, collecting biomass and soil samples, and even using an in vivo imaging system to capture images of root systems without harming the plants. It’s demanding work, often exposed to the elements, but Talbert finds it incredibly fulfilling.Looking to the Future
Talbert graduated in December with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a certificate from the pierre Laclede Honors College. Now, she’s focused on applying for PhD programs in genetics while continuing her research at the Danforth Center. While she envisions a future dedicated to research, she remains open to the possibility of working directly with patients with genetic diseases in a medical setting. “I would hope that 10 or 20 years down the line, I would have a main area or question that I’m focused on and can really put a lot of effort in,” she said. “It’d be really awesome to have some papers out and be able to showcase my findings with people and other fellow researchers,the community and the government to really make some change.” Driven by a passion for scientific inquiry and a profound desire to make a tangible difference in the world, Talbert’s journey in plant science is one to watch.UMSL Alumna Pursues Dream of Changing the World Through Plant Science
julia Talbert, a recent biology graduate from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL), is already making strides towards her enterprising goal of changing the world. Talbert is currently working as a research assistant at the Danforth Plant Science Center, a position she landed thanks in part to the exceptional education she received at UMSL. For Talbert, the desire to make a difference stems from a deep-seated passion for helping others. “That’s kind of the why of everything – just wanting to help people,” she explains. ”I hope at that time I’ll make some contribution to be able to change the world. Changing the world has always been the goal.” Talbert attributes her success to the rigorous academics and supportive environment at UMSL. she credits the Department of biology for providing her with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field. the Honors College, she adds, honed her critical thinking and dialog skills, abilities she recognizes as crucial in any career path. Reflecting on her journey, Talbert now encourages current students to embrace boldness and step outside their comfort zones. “I feel like I’ve had so many lost opportunities from thinking, ‘I’m not smart enough to do that,’ ‘I’m not good enough to do that,’ or ‘I don’t think I can handle that,’” she admits. “But once it’s passed, I realize I could have. That’s something I would encourage everyone to do – really put yourself out there, challenge yourself and not let yoru own limitations get in the way.” Talbert’s message is a powerful reminder that self-doubt can be a notable barrier to achieving one’s goals. By encouraging others to push past their perceived limitations, she hopes to inspire a new generation of changemakers.
## From Animal Planet to Plant Genetics: A Conversation with Julia Talbert
**Today on Archyde, we’re delighted to welcome Julia Talbert, a recent graduate of the university of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). Julia’s journey, from childhood fascination with Animal Planet to groundbreaking research in plant genetics at the Danforth Center, is an inspiring testament to the power of curiosity and dedication. Julia, thank you for joining us.**
**Julia:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Let’s start at the beginning. You mentioned being captivated by Animal Planet as a child.How did that early interest in the natural world lead you to plant genetics?**
**Julia:** It’s funny, I originally thought I wanted to be a veterinarian! But during a high school biology class, I was introduced to the complexities of genetics. It just clicked. I was fascinated by the idea that something so small coudl dictate so much about an organism. That’s when I started independent research, delving deeper into genetic diseases.
**That’s quite a leap! What drew you to UMSL specifically?**
**Julia:** The renowned Department of Biology played a big role. UMSL also had fantastic scholarship programs, like the chancellor’s Scholarship and the Proud to be First Scholarship, making it incredibly affordable. And the Pierre laclede Honors College, with its discussion-based learning surroundings, sealed the deal.
**You mentioned independent research. Can you share a bit about your early work at UMSL?**
**Julia:** I was lucky enough to join Dr. Bethany Zolman’s plant genetics lab.My first project was a collaboration with Dr.Lon chubiz’s microbiology lab, examining the effects of a newly discovered soil bacteria, WBG-1, on the growth of a plant called Arabidopsis thaliana. It was a challenging project, with lots of troubleshooting along the way, but ultimately, we found that the bacteria didn’t seem to have a significant impact on the plants’ growth.
**That’s a great example of the dedication and persistence required in scientific research. What did you learn from that experience?**
**Julia:** Patience, definitely! There were many days when I wanted to give up, especially when experiments failed due to unforeseen contamination. But I learned to persevere. Each failed experiment was a learning possibility, helping me refine my methodology and understand the complexities of scientific research.
**Your perseverance paid off! You presented your research at UMSL’s undergraduate Research Symposium and earned an award for best poster content. That’s astounding! And your journey didn’t end there, right? You’re now working at the Danforth Plant Science Center**
**Julia:** That’s right! After graduating in December with a biology degree, I landed a research assistant position at the Danforth Center. It’s been an amazing experience so far. I’m working with Dr. Shakoor’s lab, focusing on increasing sorghum yields and developing strategies to mitigate climate change using plants.
**That’s such significant work! How does it feel to be contributing to solutions for global challenges?**
**Julia:** It’s incredibly fulfilling.it’s not just about doing science; it’s about making a tangible difference in the world.The Mission of the Danforth Center resonated deeply with me – thier commitment to using science to improve peopel’s lives and tackle critical global issues.
**What’s next for Julia Talbert? Where do you see yourself in the future?**
**Julia:** Right now, I’m focusing on applying for PhD programs in genetics, and I hope to continue my research here at the Danforth Center. While I envision a future dedicated to research, I’m also open to the possibility
of working directly with patients with genetic diseases.
**That’s incredible! julia, thank you so much for sharing your inspiring journey with us.It’s clear you’re on a path to make a real impact in the world. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!**
**Julia:** Thank you so much for having me.
