UFGI faculty profile – maria gallo

Name: Maria Gallo

Born: Port Chester, New York

Position at UF: Associate Professor in the Department of Agronomy, CALS.

Job before this one: Assistant Professor, Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minn.

Current research interest, in layman’s terms:  I am responsible for researching the molecular genetics of the peanut and other agronomic crops of importance to Florida. My peanut genomics program is currently focusing on producing a more nutritious peanut that has low allergenicity, higher levels of the heart-healthy mono-unsaturated fats and beneficial amounts of compounds such as folate.

Prior Research: Focus was on molecular breeding in wheat and barley for resistance to a fungal disease, Fusarium head blight.

Education:  B.S. 1984, Agronomy, Cornell University; M.S. 1986, Crop Science, North Carolina State University; Ph.D. 1991, Genetics, North Carolina State University

When I'm not at work, I am: Exercising at the Gainesville Health and Fitness Center or relaxing at home by gardening, cooking or reading.

The best thing that I've done lately that no one knows about: Made a donation to Teach For America in honor of the late Peter Jennings.

Last non-work related book: The Mermaid Chair.

Last movie and your thoughts:  Rented “The Usual Suspects” when I discovered that “March of the Penguins” was sold out! Kevin Spacey was great and it gave me creepy chills.

Something always in your refrigerator: Orange-peach-mango juice and fresh mozzarella.

People would be surprised to know that: I love to cook.

Contact me at: mgmea@ifas.ufl.edu