Nethraja Kandula

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I was inspired to pursue a graduate degree because I wanted to do research that solves real problems in food safety and food systems. Graduate school gave me the chance to build deeper scientific skills, ask meaningful questions, and contribute knowledge that can make a practical difference. I chose FSU because of its strong research environment, the opportunity to work with supportive faculty mentors, and the chance to grow as both a scientist and educator. It felt like a place where I could challenge myself and turn my ideas into impactful work.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My research focuses on improving how we detect and measure Salmonella in poultry. Most routine methods tell us only whether the pathogen is present, but my work uses digital PCR to measure how much is there, which gives more meaningful information for food safety decisions. This is important because the level of contamination can influence risk, processing choices, and public health outcomes. By developing faster and more informative detection tools, my work aims to support safer food systems.

Career aspirations

My career goal is to build a career in food safety and food science research where I can develop practical solutions that improve public health and the food industry. I hope to continue working at the intersection of research, innovation, and real-world application, whether in academia, industry, or translational research settings. Long-term, I want my work to contribute to both scientific knowledge and technologies that can make food systems safer and more effective.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Go into graduate school with curiosity, patience, and a willingness to grow through challenges. It is not always easy, but it helps you build strong skills in thinking, problem-solving, and independence. Choose a program and mentor that support your goals, because the right environment makes a big difference.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am most proud of completing the NSF I-Corps Mid-South Hub Ideator program, publishing my research, and taking on leadership responsibilities in the lab. The I-Corps experience is especially meaningful to me because it taught me how to think beyond the lab and understand how research can be translated into real-world solutions with practical value. It changed the way I view innovation by showing me that discovery is most powerful when it can make a difference outside academia.