Informational Interview with Monic Pedroni, Research Associate at University of Idaho

By Mallory Cullen, Conviron Scholar

What is your current job and what does it entail?

My current job is a molecular biology research associate at the University of Idaho. My job involves management of a potato molecular biology program. My job includes mentoring, everyday work at the bench, management such as purchasing orders, budgeting, and organizing projects.

What preparation was required to obtain this job?

I had to go through an interview process and present a 30-minute prepared presentation on my work history.

What skills were required to obtain this job?

Skills that were required were excellent record keeping, having good communication, being aseptic in technique, and the ability to learn.

What skills have you learned from this job?

I have learned excellent communication skills, how to be pragmatic, and I have learned new techniques that have strengthened my bench work.

What is your favorite part of this job?

Being at the bench and doing the science.

What is the hardest part of your job?

The hardest part of being a research associate in academia is working with PIs.

What is the coolest project you have worked on?

I have worked in academia for 10 plus years and I have also worked in industry for 10 plus years. The coolest project I have worked on was when I was working for the USDA. I was working in the narcotics program specifically with the poppy plant. In this role, I learned everything from the science to the policy and procedures for narcotics. The policy surrounding my research is what made this project so fascinating.