Cathrine Ziyo

Dr Ziyomo is a plant Molecular Breeder with combined experience in ­­­­­­public and private sector breeding institutions. Prior to joining ILRI, Cathrine was a maize Molecular Breeder for Dupont Pioneer based in Zimbabwe where she was responsible for the development of drought and early maturing maize hybrids for East Southern and Central Africa (ESCA) region.

She joined ILRI as a Senior Scientist – Molecular Breeder in February 2018 to lead the Integrated Genotyping Service and Support (IGSS) platform in supporting African plant and animal breeders to routinely use DNA molecular markers in their breeding programs and ultimately increase genetic gains. She obtained her doctorate degree (PhD) in Agronomy and Plant Genetics from the University of Minnesota and also has postdoctoral experience from the Danforth Plant Science Center in Missouri. Her Masters’ degree research project was carried out under the supervision of CIMMYT scientists.