Kelly Zarka

Kelly Zarka

Contact Me

USAID Global Biotech Potato Partnership - Global Molecular and Technical Research Lead
Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences

Phone:
517-884-6934

Email:

 

2012 Michigan State University Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Recipient

Current Positions

USAID Global Molecular and Technical Lead - USAID Feed the Future Global Biotech Potato Partnership 2021-2026 current

Bill and Melinda Gates Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology - Molecular and Technical Lead (Potato) 2024-2028 current

MSU Potato SNP Genotyping Service Manager  - current

MSU Potato Virus Removal Service Manager - current

Manager Potato Program Webpage - current

Molecular Research Technician, Genetic and Protein Analysis Specialist since 1995.

Recent Previous Projects

Project Manager and Molecular Research Manager - USAID Feed the Future Biotechnology Partnership - Potato Project 2020-2021

Molecular Research Manager - USAID Feed the Future Biotechnology Partnership - Potato Project 2015-2020


Research Interests:

I am involved in several research projects focused on improving potato varieties with genetic modification for USAID. Additionally, within our potato program I have developed several virus eradication methods (cryogenics, tissue culture techniques and chemical therapy) that we use to certify important potato varieties. 

Previously I was the project assistant for our SolCAP a USDA funded Coordinated Agricultural Project.  Translating Solanaceae Sequence Diversity and Trait Variation into Applied Outcomes through Integrative Research, Education and Extension.   I was also the molecular manager for the ABSP USAID Biotech Potato Africa project. For more details go to the Project Page

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