Agência de Cooperação Internacional do Japão
Dr. Kazuko Yamaguchi-Shinozaki’s laboratory group
My name is Amanda and I'm a PhD student, at State University of Londrina – UEL conducting my research at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Embrapa Soybean, a reference research center for soybean in Brazil, where I develop my studies in a project that aims to obtain genetically modified soybeans plants more tolerant to drought stress, a severe problem that causes significant losses in Brazilian agriculture. This project is led by the researcher Dr. Alexandre Nepomuceno at Embrapa Soybean Center, in partnership with Japanese research institutes, JIRCAS, RIKEN and Tokyo University, with the financial support of JST and JICA.
From June 2010 to January 2011, I stayed in Japan, and I had a great life experience. During this seven month period, I developed my research work at Dr. Kazuko Yamaguchi-Shinozaki's laboratory at JIRCAS institute, in Tsukuba. There I improved my skills in some methods and research techniques in plant biotechnology, and of course, exchanged information with renowned researchers, learning a little about their research and their experiences in several different research areas. I also had the opportunity to visit other research centers and observed the operation of cutting-edge equipments. Certainly, all this professional experience was very important to develop and give continuity to my research study.
Cultural exchange at the japanese primary school
Besides the scientific experience, through a JICA program that encourages foreigners to present their traditions and culture in Japanese schools, I had the chance to know a little about Japanese educational system. It was an unforgettable experience, and where I´ve met adorable Japanese children.
Finally, I believe that this opportunity to know Japan, their culture, their life style and specially their important researches in plant molecular/biotechnology area brings me a truly personal and professional training experience that will prepare me for future challenges.
Amanda Alves de Paiva Rolla
Doctoral Student
Project Development of Genetic Engineering Technology of Crops with Stress Tolerance Against Degradation of Global Environment
EMBRAPA Soybean
