SOAR Member Profiles

Anika Chowdhury

• SOAR Position: Member; Alumni
• Major: Biology
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. John Dubois

Current Focus: Cross-Breeding Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Varieties to Assess Changes in Cannabinoid Content and Seed Yield

Additional Interests: travel, paint, play soccer

Project Description

Cannabis sativa is a dioecious species, meaning that there are separate male and female plants. Female inflorescences (flower buds) have higher concentrations of CBD than male inflorescences. This makes female plants much more valuable in the medical field than male plants. To cross-breed different varieties and produce all female seeds, it is important to induce some female plants to develop male flowers that will produce genetically female pollen. This is the objective of the research.Therefore, by applying silver thiosulfate, pollen producing male flowers should be generated on female hemp for the purpose of cross-breeding varieties. The goals of the project will be (1) to successfully generate pollen-producing female plants; (2) to successfully cross-breed the pollen-producing plants with female plants; (3) to determine if CBD levels can be increased; and (4) to assess seed yields.

Why does this topic interest you?

Cannabis sativa could be used to treat several conditions. Both the pharmaceutical and medical fields are highly interested in this plant due to its metabolites, which show potent bioactivities on health. This topic interests me because it can help people live a better life.

What are your professional aspirations?

My dream career is to be a primary care physician. My goal is to provide medical treatment to underprivileged communities. Contributing to one’s wellness is what I’m passionate about. It was, is, and always will be my dream to work for the betterment of the society.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Never give up! Research might not always workout the way you want but don’t be discouraged. Keep doing your best and you’ll be successful one day.

Return to Listing