Laura Ortega
About Laura Ortega
Laura Ortega is a Research Associate II at Benson Hill in St. Louis, Missouri, with a strong background in plant pathology and crop science. She holds a Master of Science in Plant Pathology and has previous research experience at institutions such as the University of Arkansas and Cornell University.
Current Role at Benson Hill
Laura Ortega serves as a Research Associate II at Benson Hill, a position she has held since 2020. In this role, she contributes to research initiatives focused on agricultural innovation and biotechnology. Her work supports the company's mission to enhance crop performance and sustainability. She is based in St. Louis, Missouri, where she collaborates with a team of researchers to advance the company's objectives.
Previous Experience at University of Arkansas
Prior to her current role, Laura Ortega worked at the University of Arkansas as an Associate Researcher for five months in 2020. During this time, she engaged in research activities that contributed to the university's agricultural studies. Additionally, she served as a Laboratory Assistant at the same institution from 2015 to 2017, where she supported various laboratory functions and research projects.
Education and Academic Background
Laura Ortega earned her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Food, and Life Sciences from the University of Arkansas, where she studied Crop Science with minors in pest management and crop biotechnology from 2015 to 2017. She continued her education at the same university, obtaining a Master of Science in Plant Pathology from 2018 to 2020. Her academic background provides a strong foundation for her research work in plant health and agricultural science.
Research Experience at Cornell University
In 2017, Laura Ortega gained research experience as a Summer Researcher at Cornell University in Geneva, New York. This three-month position allowed her to further develop her research skills and contribute to ongoing projects in the field of plant science. The experience at a prestigious institution enhanced her understanding of agricultural research.
Educational Journey and Early Work Experience
Laura Ortega's educational journey began at Rogers High School, where she completed her High School Diploma from 2009 to 2013. She then attended NorthWest Arkansas Community College, earning an Associate of Science and an Associate of Arts from 2013 to 2015. Additionally, she studied abroad at UGent in 2016, focusing on Sustainability in the Agro-Food Chain for 11 months. Before her research roles, she worked as a Front Desk Receptionist at NorthWest Arkansas Community College from 2013 to 2014.