Chelsea Donnelly

I completed my final year of studies at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, where I studies BSc in Agriculture (Hons) and majored in Plant Pathology. Throughout my studies I have gained skills working in the laboratory both in a team setting and independently and therefore can work well in both scenarios. I have an understanding on how to compile scientific reports, conduct presentations and perform laboratory protocols. 

I am passionate about developing solutions to provide both the agricultural sector and consumers with products that are both safe for the environment and effective in protecting crops from disease and pests. 
 

Throughout my studies I have noted the demand for new methods to protect crops such as with the use of biological control agents, through breeding programmes, as well as through processes such as gene editing (CRISPER-cas9). My degree has covered topics ranging from plant disease epidemiology, phytopathology , virology and biotechnology.  

Recently completed my fourth year of studies at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal - BSc Agriculture (Hons)

My degree is a four-year degree which includes honours and focuses on the impact of plant diseases on major food crops and methods in which these diseases can be controlled through a variety of crop protection methods which include plant breeding techniques, creating genetically modified organisms, CRISPR-Cas9, and the use of biocontrol agents. My degree aims to use sustainable methods to protect plants, in order to reduce the use of dangerous chemicals that are often utilized in plant protection. Other areas covered in my degree include the study of disease epidemiology, plant virology and biotechnology, mycology and field plant pathology. I have performed a number of practicals throughout my degree which has enabled me to gain valuable lab skills, which includes microscopy, ELISA, PCR, preparing media, isolation and sub culturing. I also have experience writing scientific reports, and in preparing and presenting presentations. I am currently working on my 4th year project whereby I am diagnosing an unknown pathogen infecting ornamental plants using a combination of diagnostic techniques both direct and indirect. Throughout my undergraduate degree I have excelled in group work, however my project has allowed me to be able to work independently in the laboratory.

Highschool: Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School

-matriculated with a Bachelor’s Pass 

University: University of Kwa-Zulu Natal

- completing my final year doing a BSc in Agriculture (Hons)