The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) boasts a team of highly accomplished women scientists, whose expertise spans a broad range of disciplines. These researchers and extension advisors contribute innovative solutions in areas from sustainable agriculture to environmental science, while actively engaging with communities to share their knowledge. As March marks the Month of Women in Science, it is an opportunity to highlight the groundbreaking work of these professionals and their impact on California’s landscapes, food systems and natural resources. Below are profiles that showcase their specialties, research endeavors and significant contributions to advancing the quality of life for Californians.
Securing California’s Water Future: Laura Elisa Garza Díaz’s commitment to climate resilience
Water is the lifeblood of California’s communities, supporting agriculture, ecosystems, and daily life. However, intensified droughts, floods, and wildfires—driven by climate change—continue to threaten water availability and quality across the state. At the forefront of efforts to build water resilience is Laura Elisa Garza Díaz, a UC Cooperative Extension water and climate change advisor serving Lake and Mendocino counties. Through science-based strategies and community engagement, she works to protect vital water resources and help local stakeholders navigate complex water challenges.
Garza’s work sits at the intersection of environmental science and practical solutions. She collaborates with farmers, natural resource managers, water agencies and policymakers to develop sustainable water-management strategies – such as helping farmers implement California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which is aimed at protecting long-term water supplies. She also provides education in English and Spanish to help communities adopt sustainable water practices and prepare for the increasing uncertainties of a changing climate.
A native of Monterrey, Mexico, Garza brings a wealth of international experience to her role. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Tecnológico de Monterrey before completing an Erasmus Mundus joint master’s in applied ecology [where?] in Europe. Her passion for water sustainability deepened while earning a Ph.D. in hydrologic sciences from UC Davis, where she studied the complex interactions between climate, water and ecosystems.
Throughout her career, Garza has blended research with real-world applications. She worked as a specialist at the Water Center for Latin America and the Caribbean, advised environmental initiatives at the nongovernmental organization Pronatura Noroeste, and served as a project manager for the Washington Water Trust, gaining hands-on experience in water conservation programs. She also launched a “Women in Science” interview series, amplifying the voices of women researchers in water management.
Now at UC ANR, Garza is leveraging her expertise to strengthen water resilience at the local level. Through policy guidance, partnerships and educational workshops, she empowers communities to better understand and manage their water resources. “I aim to provide local stakeholders with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complexities of water quality, quantity, and climate change,” she says, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility in water conservation.
By combining cutting-edge research with community-driven solutions, Garza Díaz is bringing UC ANR’s mission to life – advancing sustainable practices, protecting natural resources and improving the quality of life for all Californians.
Climate-Resilient Landscapes: Haramrit Gill is reshaping California’s green spaces
In California’s San Joaquin Valley, where rising temperatures and extreme weather events threaten urban and rural landscapes, horticultural scientist Haramrit Gill is working to build climate-resilient communities. As a UC Cooperative Extension environmental horticulture advisor, Gill is focused on identifying heat-tolerant, disease-resistant and fire-resistant plant species – particularly native California plants – to help communities develop sustainable green spaces that can withstand the challenges of a changing climate. Her work benefits both city planners and farmers, offering solutions for biodiverse, drought-resilient landscapes that support local ecosystems, conserve water and enhance soil health.
Gill’s expertise in plant adaptation is backed by a strong academic foundation. Originally from Punjab, India, she earned a Ph.D. in horticultural sciences, following bachelor’s. and master’s degrees in agriculture and horticulture in her home country. At Texas A&M University, her doctoral research focused on rose breeding and genetics, analyzing key traits such as flower color changes, fragrance and disease resistance. She also conducted early research on the impact of nutrients, such as nitrogen on spinach root architecture – studies that now inform her approach to sustainable planting strategies.
Now, through scientific research and community outreach, Gill evaluates and recommends climate-smart plants that offer superior adaptation to California’s extreme weather patterns. By merging agricultural innovation with ecological sustainability, she is helping shape a future where landscapes are not only aesthetically appealing, but also resilient, sustainable and beneficial to both urban and rural communities – bringing to life UC ANR’s mission and vision of improving the quality of life in all California communities.
Advancing Sustainable Pest Management: Idongesit Mokwunye’s mission to protect California crops
Across California’s vast agricultural landscape, pests pose a persistent challenge to growers, threatening the health of tree fruit and nut crops. At the forefront of sustainable pest control is Idongesit “Idong” Mokwunye, an Integrated Pest Management entomology advisor with UC Agriculture and Natural Resources. Drawing on extensive international experience, she is pioneering research-based strategies to combat major crop pests while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Mokwunye’s expertise is built on over 15 years of experience as a crop entomologist at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, where she led the Crop Protection Division. With a Ph.D. in entomology, her research spans integrated pest management, chemical ecology and economic entomology, focusing on pest population dynamics and control methods. Her work has included in-depth studies on the cashew stem girdler, a key agricultural pest, as well as developing effective mitigation strategies for farmers. She has published more than 25 scientific articles and is recognized as a Fellow of the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development – a testament to her contributions to agricultural science.
Now based at the Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Mokwunye is applying her expertise to protect California’s tree fruit and nut crops. Her research targets some of the region’s most damaging pests, including navel orangeworm, mealybugs, mites and scale insects, which threaten crop yields and economic sustainability. She is developing environmentally friendly pest management strategies, helping growers reduce chemical reliance while maintaining crop health.
Beyond the lab and research fields, Mokwunye is deeply engaged in community outreach and farmer education. Having led extensive good agricultural practices workshops in Nigeria, she now brings this hands-on training approach to California, working closely with growers to tailor pest management solutions to their specific needs. By combining cutting-edge research with direct engagement, she empowers farmers with science-driven, sustainable strategies that strengthen agricultural resilience.
Through her work, Mokwunye embodies UC ANR’s commitment to delivering practical, research-based solutions that support farmers, protect natural resources, and enhance agricultural sustainability. She brings to life UC ANR’s mission to improve the quality of life in all California communities.
Strengthening California’s Agriculture: Ana Pastrana protects crops from plant disease
Southern California, known for its rich farmlands and year-round growing season, plays a vital role in feeding the nation. This region produces a diverse range of crops, from leafy greens to berries, that rely on healthy soils and disease-free conditions. Ensuring this farming success requires scientific expertise, and that’s where specialists like Ana Pastrana come in.
As a UC Cooperative Extension plant pathology advisor, Pastrana works alongside farmers and pest control advisers in Imperial, Riverside and San Diego counties to identify plant diseases and apply effective management strategies. Focusing on disease prevention and soil health, she helps protect crops from devastating losses.
Pastrana’s expertise is deeply rooted in her global research experience. Originally from Seville, Spain, she earned a Ph.D. in biology (plant pathology). She studied strawberry diseases that emerged when Europe banned fumigants like methyl bromide, creating a need for alternative soil treatments. Her career has taken her across three continents, from research roles at the University of Seville to a Canadian innovation center and later a postdoctoral fellowship at UC Davis, where she studied soilborne pathogens affecting strawberries and blackberries.
Now, Pastrana applies her international knowledge to Southern California’s crops, championing a preventative approach to plant health. Like a doctor for plants, she emphasizes that proactive measures – such as soil health management and early disease detection – are key to preventing crops from “getting sick.” Through hands-on training, consultations and field research, she equips growers with the tools they need to reduce crop losses and enhance profitability.
Growing up in a farming community surrounded by orchards in Spain, Pastrana developed an early passion for plant life, inspiring a career dedicated to advancing agricultural sustainability. Today, through science-driven solutions and community engagement, she is ensuring that Southern California’s farmers have the knowledge and resources needed to thrive.
By merging cutting-edge research with practical solutions, Pastrana is bringing UC ANR’s mission to life – delivering innovative science, protecting natural resources and improving the quality of life in all California communities.
Inspiring the Future, Strengthening California
Through science, innovation and community partnerships, the women of UC ANR are shaping a healthier, more resilient California. Their work not only transforms agriculture and natural resources but also paves the way for future generations to lead with knowledge, passion and purpose. A better future starts with science—and with those who dare to make a difference.