###Lab
[Berkley Walker](https://directory.natsci.msu.edu/Directory/Profiles/Person/102400)
###Research interests
To challenge and expand current photosynthetic models to better represent the photorespiratory response to increased temperature.
###Quick Profile
**What got you interested in plants and plant science?**
During my undergraduate career, I took a lower-level botany course and found myself interested in plant life complexities. Soon after, I began to garden, conduct research, and participate in community projects, all associated with plants in some way.
**What is your research about?**
Mathematical and biochemical models have been established, defining CO2 evolution mechanisms of C3 photosynthesis; however, these models make assumptions that have not been validated under increased temperature - posing a problem when climate change is considered. I intend to uncover the mysteries of temperature response in photorespiration using an innovative combination of in vivo gas exchange and in vitro discrimination approaches to improve these models.
**What is the potential societal impact of your research?**
Improving the C3 photosynthetic model will have a dramatic agricultural impact. By improving our understanding of photorespiration and temperature, higher models (crop yield, global climate change, and land feedback models) that embed this model will become more precise. In addition, engineering strategies for temperature resilience could ensue.
**Where do you see yourself in 10 years?**
Within ten years, I am determined to achieve a Ph.D. degree and a post-doctoral position in which I will mature as a molecular plant physiologist and isotope scientist. I hope to find myself employed at a teaching college and have ambitions to act as a preceptor and advocate for student success. I would also like to engage my community with plant-related projects and believe I have the creativity and enthusiasm needed to inspire the next generation of students entering STEM.
**On a Saturday afternoon, you'll likely find me:**
Enjoying the outdoors.
