Vanessa Maekawa

Senior Researcher with a PhD in Plant Biology from UNICAMP and over 10 years of experience in cytogenetics, plant evolution, and taxonomy. Extensive postdoctoral experience (CAPES Fellow), with strong expertise in molecular cytogenetic techniques, including FISH, chromosome banding, and in situ hybridization. Proven track record in research projects funded by FAPESP and CAPES, with international academic experience as a Visiting Professor in Mexico.

Recognized for contributions to plant systematics and genome organization, including a highly cited study on Stevia rebaudiana and collaborations with leading institutions such as CPQBA/UNICAMP, IB/USP, ESALQ/USP, and international research networks. Expertise spans high-value plant groups, including Orchidaceae, Asteraceae, Cactaceae, and Smilacaceae, with applications in biodiversity, conservation, and plant science. Strong ability to adapt scientific knowledge to interdisciplinary and applied research contexts.

Post-Doctoral Researcher (CAPES Fellow) - University of Campinas (UNICAMP) - Brazil

(2008-01 - 2013-12)

• Conducted cytotaxonomy and evolutionary research on Orchidaceae (subtribe Catasetinae), focusing on chromosomal diversity and polyploidy
• Managed own research activities, including experimental design, data analysis, and reporting
• Applied advanced cytogenetic techniques, including FISH and chromosome banding
• Collaborated with research groups in Brazil and internationally
• Contributed to studies involving multiple plant groups, including Rhipsalis (Cactaceae) and Smilax (Smilacaceae)

PhD Researcher in Plant Biology (FAPESP Fellow) - University of Campinas (UNICAMP) - Brazil

(2005-01 - 2008-12)

• Conducted cytogenetic research on Vernonia (Asteraceae)
• Applied chromosome banding and FISH techniques to study karyotype evolution
• Contributed to scientific publications and conferences

MSc Researcher in Plant Biology (FAPESP Fellow) - University of Campinas (UNICAMP) - Brazil

(2003-01 - 2005-12)

• Performed cytotaxonomic studies of Vernonia species from the Brazilian Cerrado
• Developed expertise in plant taxonomy and chromosome analysis

Undergraduate Researcher (FAPESP Fellow) - UNICAMP / CPQBA - Brazil

(2000-01 - 2002-12)

• Conducted cytogenetic research on Stevia rebaudiana
• Co-authored a highly cited publication (59 citations) on chromosomal variation and polyploidy

Visiting Professor of Cytogenetics - National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) - Mexico

(2011-01 - 2011-12)

• Delivered the course "Plant Cytogenetics: Conventional and Cytomolecular Applications"
• Promoted international academic collaboration

Teaching Assistant (Biology & Plant Biology Programs) - University of Campinas (UNICAMP) - Brazil

• Provided occasional support in undergraduate and graduate-level courses in Biology and Plant Biology
• Assisted in both theoretical and practical classes, supporting student learning and laboratory activities
• Occasionally delivered lectures and guided students during practical sessions
• Monitored student progress and provided academic support during coursework

Science and Exact Sciences Teacher - Centro Evangélico de Educação e Cultura - Brazil

(2003-01 - 2003-12)

• Taught English, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics
• Developed interdisciplinary teaching approaches

PhD - Plant Biology - University of Campinas (UNICAMP) (2008-12)

MSc - Plant Biology - University of Campinas (UNICAMP) (2005-12)

BSc - Biological Sciences - PUC-Campinas (2002-12)