Student Spotlight: Julianna Harden
November 17, 2025
Julianna Harden is a doctoral student in plant biology from Mobile, Alabama. She earned her B.S. at Howard University and now studies the characterization of fungal diversity associated with the Theobroma cacao tree under the guidance of Chelsea Specht at Cornell.
What is your area of research and why is it important?
I am interested in characterizing the fungal diversity associated with the culturally and agriculturally significant tropical tree, Theobroma cacao, and investigating the functional roles of these fungal communities in relation to host plant health (e.g., plant growth and susceptibility to fungal pathogens). My research seeks to address the association between fungal diversity and T. cacao’s susceptibility to pathogenic fungi to promote its success in agroforestry systems in the tropics. In addition to the intellectual insights, my research incorporates a strong social element, focusing on how T. cacao-producing communities recognize and manage fungal diseases.
What are the larger implications of this research?
From a biodiversity perspective, I strive to cultivate an understanding about the global commodity that cacao is and highlight its cultural and economic significance in the tropics. The potential to describe new fungal species, enhancing our knowledge of tropical biodiversity, also fascinates me. Lastly, I hope to explore differences in disease knowledge and management strategies and provide insights on how it may be shaped by the farming system, farmer social identities, and market orientation. This will be incredibly important for small farmers who produce fine chocolates, which are rare in production due to their heightened susceptibility to fungal pathogens.
What does it mean to you to be a Dean’s Scholar?
To me, being a Graduate School Dean’s Scholar means belonging to a community of incredibly innovative and intelligent professionals who contribute to Cornell’s founding principle “…any person … any study.” This community of scholars inspires me to pursue excellence and creativity in both my own academic endeavors and personal life. Being a Dean’s Scholar is not only an immense honor, but also a profound responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the diversity of people and perspectives that define Cornell University.
What are you most looking forward to in regards to being a Dean’s Scholar?
I have already found great joy in meeting scholars from diverse fields and building community around our shared interests and future goals. I look forward to further exploring connections with other Dean’s Scholars and members of the Cornell community who are affiliated with or engaged in the Graduate School Dean’s Scholars program. Finally, I am excited to reflect on and track my growth and development, not only as a scholar, but also as an active member of the graduate and professional student community here at Cornell University and within the Ithaca community.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of your research or scholarship?
In my free time, I enjoy photography, content creating, yoga, fishing, hiking, botanizing, and, more recently, I’ve been learning to dance salsa and bachata. One of my first passions was photography because it allows me to capture precious moments in time so beautifully. I enjoy creating digital content as an artistic outlet to share my interests, connect with others, and improve my communication skills. Hiking and botanizing deepen my appreciation for nature and biodiversity. Lastly, learning to dance has been a fun way to challenge myself and celebrate community through movement and culture.
Why did you choose Cornell to pursue your degree?
Upon graduating from Howard University, I began working at Cornell as a laboratory technician and research assistant. During those two years, I strengthened a wide range of skills, including wet lab, computational, and professional skills. I had the opportunity to meet leaders in my field who provided valuable insights and fueled my passion for science. I discovered that I align strongly with Cornell’s founding principles and core values, including purposeful discovery, community, and exploration across boundaries. Choosing Cornell was natural, offering the chance to study plant biology and access a rich network of resources, all while enjoying the beauty of Ithaca.