Maria Clara Faria Chaves, a Ph.D. student at the University of Arkansas, has been recognized with three distinguished awards from the American Society of Plant Biologists in 2024. These highlight her contributions to plant science research and leadership within the plant biology community.

Faria Chaves was selected as the 2023 Ambassador of the Year (awarded in 2024) by the leadership of the ASPB Ambassadors and the Membership Committee. This honor is awarded to a single individual annually, recognizing outstanding service and contributions as an ASPB Ambassador. Faria Chaves's role as an ambassador has included promoting the American Society of Plant Biologists' mission, mentoring future scientists, and engaging in community outreach.

Faria Chaves was also awarded the prestigious Henry Daniell International Scholar Award, which supports and recognizes outstanding international plant biologists from the American Society of Plant Biologists-Southern Section. This honor was received during the section's annual banquet last March in Dauphin Island, Alabama. 

Faria Chaves also received the Recognition Travel Award from the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee of the society. This award supported her attendance at the society's 2024 Annual Meeting, facilitating the opportunity to present her research to a global audience of scientists.

Faria Chaves's research focuses on understanding the genetic mechanisms behind rice growth and stress response. Working with plant biotechnology professor Vibha Srivastava from the Department of Crop, Soils and Environmental Sciences, Faria Chaves investigates how crops adapt to environmental challenges. 

---

About American Society of Plant Biologists: ASPB is a professional society devoted to advancing plant science research and education. It publishes three world-class journals and organizes conferences and other educational activities that are key to the advancement of plant science.