{"id":17,"date":"2022-07-10T10:20:17","date_gmt":"2022-07-10T14:20:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/?page_id=17"},"modified":"2026-01-30T08:55:06","modified_gmt":"2026-01-30T13:55:06","slug":"people","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/people\/","title":{"rendered":"People"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"146\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2022\/07\/Zilfina.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-102\" style=\"width:188px;height:283px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Zilfina&nbsp;Rubio Ames\u200b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ph.D. Horticulture, University of Florida\u200b<br>M.S Horticulture, Minor in Food Science, University of Florida\u200b<br>B.S Agronomy, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo-Peru\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bMy primary goal as a small fruit extension specialist in the state of Georgia is to improve berry production systems, making them more efficient and sustainable by using methods and inputs that improve yield and quality.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/zilfina-rubio-ames-ph-d-8a942015b\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"147\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2022\/07\/Melissa.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-103\" style=\"width:188px;height:281px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Melissa Brannon\u200b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Research Assistant\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bMrs. Brannon has been with UGA for 14 years. She worked in row crops and vegetables for several years. Melissa enjoys field work, has a phenomenal work ethic and ability to get things done.\u200b<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1067\" height=\"1600\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-15-at-21.38.22-edited.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-355\" style=\"width:210px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-15-at-21.38.22-edited.jpeg 1067w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-15-at-21.38.22-edited-200x300.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-15-at-21.38.22-edited-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-15-at-21.38.22-edited-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-15-at-21.38.22-edited-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1067px) 100vw, 1067px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Natalia Espinoza\u200b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ph.D. Student\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bNatalia is a Research Assistant at the University of Georgia. She is working on improving the fertilization regime and soil amendments for blueberries under the guidance of Dr. Zilfina Rubio Ames. Natalia completed her Master&#8217;s degree in Crop and Soil Sciences with an emphasis in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Georgia. She did her undergraduate studies in Ecuador in Agroindustrial Engineering. Before coming to UGA, she worked in cocoa production and various food industry projects. She is a Fulbright Alumni and believes in the development of sustainable agroecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/nataliaes\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1001\" height=\"1600\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/08\/thumbnail_IMG_9214-1-edited.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-337\" style=\"width:201px;height:321px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/08\/thumbnail_IMG_9214-1-edited.jpg 1001w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/08\/thumbnail_IMG_9214-1-edited-188x300.jpg 188w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/08\/thumbnail_IMG_9214-1-edited-641x1024.jpg 641w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/08\/thumbnail_IMG_9214-1-edited-768x1228.jpg 768w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/08\/thumbnail_IMG_9214-1-edited-961x1536.jpg 961w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lilian Carcamo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ph.D. Student\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bLilian, originally from Honduras, is currently a graduate student dedicated to improving the quality of blueberry fruits by investigating the pathways of calcium, boron, and pollination. She is conducting her research under the guidance of Dr. Zilfina Rubio Ames. Prior to joining our program, Lilian earned her Bachelor&#8217;s degree in Food Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Agricultura in Honduras, and then she pursued her Master&#8217;s degree in Biological Sciences at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia in Colombia. Before becoming a part of UGA, she gained valuable experience as an intern at The Ohio State University, contributing to apple and wheat breeding projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lilian-carcamo-b2389b217\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1067\" height=\"1600\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/thumbnail_federica_rossi_portrait-edited.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-352\" style=\"width:201px;height:321px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/thumbnail_federica_rossi_portrait-edited.jpg 1067w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/thumbnail_federica_rossi_portrait-edited-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/thumbnail_federica_rossi_portrait-edited-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/thumbnail_federica_rossi_portrait-edited-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/thumbnail_federica_rossi_portrait-edited-1024x1536.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1067px) 100vw, 1067px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Federica Rossi<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ph.D. Student\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Federica is a graduate student investigating how selective pruning techniques and timing affect fruit production and quality in blueberry fields across the Southeastern United States. Her research is conducted under the guidance of Dr. Zilfina Rubio Ames. Before joining UGA, Federica earned a Bachelor&#8217;s degree in \u201cAgricultural Technologies\u201d and a Master&#8217;s degree in \u201cAgricultural Sciences and Technologies\u201d from the University of Bologna (Italy). She further honed her skills during an internship with the Irrigation and Crop Ecophysiology Research Group at IRNAS-CSIC in Seville, Spain. Additionally, she brings three years of project management experience from Ri.Nova in Italy, specializing in precision agriculture, agri-environment, and fruit production systems<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/federica-rossi-4a7332207\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"458\" height=\"687\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/aurora-edited.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-397\" style=\"width:201px;height:321px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/aurora-edited.jpg 458w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/aurora-edited-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 458px) 100vw, 458px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aurora Torres<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>M.S. Student\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aurora is a Master\u2019s student in Horticulture at the University of Georgia. Originally from Honduras, her research focuses on understanding how ethephon applications influence bud development and bloom timing in southern highbush blueberry as a strategy to reduce spring freeze damage. She conducts her research under the guidance of Dr. Zilfina Rubio Ames. Outside of research, Aurora enjoys hiking and spending time in nature. She gained hands-on experience through the TOP program at The Ohio State University, where she worked on an organic farm in Massachusetts. She later joined the Small Fruit Program at UGA as an intern to further develop her research skills and gain experience in blueberry production<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"1440\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Fabian-2-edited.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-332\" style=\"width:202px;height:322px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Fabian-2-edited.jpeg 900w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Fabian-2-edited-188x300.jpeg 188w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Fabian-2-edited-640x1024.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Fabian-2-edited-768x1229.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fabian Reyes\u200b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Undergraduate Intern<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fabian pursued his undergraduate studies in Leon-Nicaragua, specializing in Tropical Agroecology. He has a passion for field and lab work, having undertaken a Research Project in phytopathology. He is also an experienced Farm Manager, skilled in planning, organizing, and supervising soil preparation, acquiring agricultural supplies, managing crops such as melon, watermelon, corn, and common beans; harvesting, and commercializing. Currently, Fabian is a research intern working with Dr. Zilfina Ames, conducting research on blackberries and blueberry crops.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"456\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2025\/09\/crislaine-2-edited.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-390\" style=\"width:201px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2025\/09\/crislaine-2-edited.jpg 456w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2025\/09\/crislaine-2-edited-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 456px) 100vw, 456px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crislaine Bueno<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Undergraduate Intern<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crislaine Bueno is a visiting scholar at the University of Georgia. She holds a bachelor&#8217;s degree in Ecology from S\u00e3o Paulo State University, Brazil, with experience in biodiversity, sustainability, and agroecosystem research focused on intricate relationships between plant biodiversity, pollinator diversity, and agricultural production.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/Picture-Gabriel-Silva-.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-400\" style=\"width:201px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/Picture-Gabriel-Silva-.png 810w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/Picture-Gabriel-Silva--225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2026\/01\/Picture-Gabriel-Silva--768x1024.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gabriel Silva<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Undergraduate Intern<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gabriel Silva is a visiting scholar at the University of Georgia and an undergraduate student in Agronomic Engineering at S\u00e3o Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil. He is currently completing his mandatory internship, assisting in research on blueberry crops, with an emphasis on flower bud development and freeze damage. He has experience managing a wide range of fruit crops and has previously conducted research on avocado. His interests include field management and research in fruticulture.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Former Lab Members<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"466\" height=\"621\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2025\/09\/vinicius_picture-2-edited-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-391\" style=\"width:215px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2025\/09\/vinicius_picture-2-edited-3.jpg 466w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2025\/09\/vinicius_picture-2-edited-3-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vinicius Fernandes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>M.S. Student<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vinicius is a Graduate Research Assistant whose research investigates strategies to improve blackberry fruit quality, with an emphasis on mitigating Red Drupelet Reversion through the application of preharvest and postharvest treatments. His work is conducted under the supervision of Dr. Angelos Deltsidis and Dr. Zilfina Ames Rubio. He holds a degree in Agronomic Engineering from S\u00e3o Paulo State University. Before his graduate studies, he completed an internship at the Small Fruits Laboratory, where he gained research experience in small fruit production.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/Zhiheng-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-361\" style=\"width:202px;height:322px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/Zhiheng-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/Zhiheng-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/Zhiheng-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/Zhiheng-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2024\/10\/Zhiheng.jpg 1067w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Zhiheng Xing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Postdoctoral Research Associate<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. Xing is currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Horticulture at the University of Georgia, working in Dr. Rubio&#8217;s lab. His research focuses on designing, testing, and implementing cover crop strategies for blueberry farming, with an emphasis on evaluating the effects of cover crops on soil health and crop productivity. Prior to joining UGA in 2024, he completed his Ph.D. at Mississippi State University, where he studied the cultivation of danshen in Mississippi.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"190\" height=\"253\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2022\/07\/Amit.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105\" style=\"width:192px;height:255px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Amit Godara\u200b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>M. S. Student\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bHe is a graduate student researcher at the University of Georgia under the guidance of Dr. Zilfina Rubio Ames and Dr. Angelos Deltsidis. Amit is currently working on the use of a photoselective device and postharvest quality in the blueberry production system. Prior to coming to UGA, he worked as a research intern at Conservation International. Amit completed his Masters&#8217;s in global food and agricultural business from the University of Adelaide, Australia, and did his bachelor&#8217;s in B.Sc. Agriculture Honours from India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/amit-godara-53645b149\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"198\" height=\"263\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2022\/07\/Karoline.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-106\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Karoline Ponder\u200b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Undergraduate Intern<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u200bKaroline Ponder is an undergraduate student at the University of Georgia. She is currently pursuing an Agricultural Engineering degree as well as a minor in Computer Science. She is a research intern under the guidance of Dr. Zilfina Rubio Ames primarily focusing on blueberry and blackberry postharvest quality.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-d7d455e7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"895\" height=\"1431\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Madison-2-edited.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-328\" style=\"width:204px;height:326px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Madison-2-edited.jpeg 895w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Madison-2-edited-188x300.jpeg 188w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Madison-2-edited-640x1024.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/07\/Madison-2-edited-768x1228.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 895px) 100vw, 895px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Madison Grace Booth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Young Scholar<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Madison is a high school senior participating in the Young Scholars program through the University of Georgia focusing on the postharvest quality of blackberries and blueberries. She will continue to work in the lab after the program is complete as a student worker.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-d7d455e7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/03\/Marcos-5-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-231\" style=\"width:196px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/03\/Marcos-5-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/03\/Marcos-5-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/03\/Marcos-5-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/files\/2023\/03\/Marcos-5.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-346627ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Marcos Del Masso Fairbanks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Undergraduate Intern<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Marcos is an undergraduate intern from Brazil. He pursuing his bachelor\u2019s degree in Agronomic Engineering at the College of Agricultural Science in Sao Paulo State University (UNESP). Marcos spent six months at Dr. Cristiane Pilon learning about the Georgia Peanut industry, after moving to Dr. Rubio Ames lab to learn about Small fruits. Marcos has experience with beef cattle, row crops and honey bees. He enjoys field work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/marcos-del-masso-fairbanks-728687230\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Zilfina&nbsp;Rubio Ames\u200b Ph.D. Horticulture, University of Florida\u200bM.S Horticulture, Minor in Food Science, University of Florida\u200bB.S Agronomy, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo-Peru\u200b \u200bMy primary goal as a small fruit extension specialist in the state of Georgia is to improve berry production systems, making them more efficient and sustainable by using methods and inputs that improve yield [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-with-sidebar","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-17","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":401,"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17\/revisions\/401"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/smallfruits\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}