Jenny Bolivar-Medina joins Washington State University Tree Fruit team

Jenny Bolivar-Medina recently joined Washington State University as a tree fruit Extension information technology transfer specialist.

As an integral member of the Tree Fruit Extension Team, Bolivar-Medina program will focus on tree fruit horticultural issues including apple rootstock evaluation, abiotic stress outreach programs and emerging industry needs.

The position is made possible through the Tree Fruit Industry Endowment.

Bolivar-Medina completed her Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics at the University of Wisconsin – Madison (UW). She earned her M.S. in Biology at the University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez and her B.S. in Biology at the Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia. Through her academic formation, Jenny acquired skills in in vitro plant tissue culture of ornamental, forest, fruit, and crop species important for farmers in Colombia, Puerto Rico and USA. Her Ph.D. research and work as Research Associate at UW were focused on physiological and genetic aspects of reproductive buds of cranberry.

Specifically, Bolivar-Medina studied the formation and development of floral meristems in reproductive buds of cranberry through the growing season and dormancy, and its implications in fruit production. These studies were funded by the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association. Other aspects complementing her professional formation includes her experience in optical and electron microscopy, designing and performing field experiments, teaching, and participation in cranberry extension programs.

As a mother of three, Bolivar-Medina enjoys spending time with them in outdoor activities, reading, watching movies and crafting.

Bolivar-Medina is located at the WSU Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center in Wenatchee. She can be reached at 509-333-8813 or j.bolivarmedina@wsu.edu