Mason Peterson, Mr.

Research Summary or Areas of Focus: 

I am a Research Technologist in the Cacao Laboratory within Penn State's Department of Plant Science. As the greenhouse lead, I oversee the propagation, cultivation, and maintenance of cacao research plants used in studies focused on improving disease resistance and advancing sustainable production practices. My work spans greenhouse management, experimental design, molecular biology techniques, and the development of propagation systems to support both research and teaching initiatives.

I earned my undergraduate degree from Penn State and continue to contribute to projects investigating cacao genetics, disease resistance, and plant propagation. In addition to my research responsibilities, I serve as the laboratory's Biosafety Officer, helping maintain safe and compliant research practices. I am passionate about applied plant science and enjoy bridging greenhouse operations with laboratory research to address real-world challenges in agriculture and crop improvement.

Advisor(s): Tarrah Geszvain

Huck Life Sciences Affiliations: Plant Institute Leadership Committee