by Kim Tedrow | Center for Plant Science Innovation
Lincoln, Neb. —Dr. Seema Sahay, UNL Biochemistry and the Center for Plant Science Innovation (PSI), is one of 25 inspiring women scientists in plant biology featured by the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB).
Sahay is recognized for her pioneering work on the mechanisms underlying plant resilience, including the genetic regulation of photoprotection, modulation of gene expression under stress conditions, and the effects of biostimulants. A noted achievement is Sahay’s characterization of the genes that regulate photosynthetic activity and nonphotochemical quenching in maize, sorghum, soybean, and tobacco.
News of the honor came in an email from ASPB as Sahay was starting her new role as Research Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and PSI Fellow at UNL, and planning her new lab, where she will step into the role of principal investigator for the first time. Receiving the news was an incredible surprise.
“At first, I ignored the email because I thought it was a mistake. Then I emailed them, and they responded that I was nominated and approved for the recognition,” said Sahay.
“I feel deeply humbled and grateful, and I hope it encourages more women to pursue careers in plant biology and the sciences,” she added.
Sahay came to UNL in 2019 as a postdoctoral researcher in Biochemistry after teaching and conducting research in Mexico. She earned her Doctorate in Plant Physiology at Aligarh Muslim University in India, where she also earned a Master of Philosophy in Environmental Sciences and a Master of Science in Botany.
Also noted by ASPB is Sahay’s ability to overcome multiple barriers, including language and culture, to teach effectively and advance her research. While in Mexico she learned basic Spanish so she could communicate better with her students. Teaching internationally has exposed her to diverse perspectives and practices, which enriches her approach to research.
Sahay looks forward to the challenges and the opportunity to contribute to science in innovative ways. She is excited to build a dynamic team of talented researchers who share her passion for plant science.