Stephanie is currently a student at Ithaca High School. This summer, Stephanie worked with graduate student Elizabeth Fox analyzing the genetic differences between a wild type tomato plant and certain mutants. A better understanding of the genetic make-ups of the tomato and the various gene functions may eventually lead to improved yields and nutritional value of this popular fruit.

Although Stephanie enjoys playing violin, piano, and tiddlywinks, and swims a mile each day, her greatest interest has always been in the biological sciences. Stephanie reports, “This great opportunity to participate first hand in professional research has provided me with greater insight on my future career plans. I am very grateful to the scientists in my lab who have been very nurturing to me. I enjoyed working with them immensely.”