Tanishka Aglave

Being the daughter of a citrus grower and growing up on a farm, I witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of Citrus Greening Disease and the struggles of farmers in managing it. Two decades ago, Florida was the largest producer of processing oranges worldwide. After this disease emerged, many farmers—including my father—struggled to restore crop yields.

I was determined to develop sustainable management methods, advocate for Florida’s citrus heritage, and empower the farmers—the heroes in the battle for citrus restoration—to revive the Florida Citrus Industry. I lead prominent research on finding a sustainable cure for the Citrus Greening Disease and engaged in advocacy to help the Florida community fight this crisis.

My research has been recognized by the U.S. President and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) , International Science and Engineering Fair (1st Place), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Beyond this project, I am a young researcher, advocate, and STEM leader passionate about inspiring youth to bridge STEM to uplift communities and address environmental challenges. I serve as the United Nations Ocean Decade Co-Chair of the Youth Advisory Council and contribute to numerous international efforts towards building a more sustainable planet. Through my work, I hope that my research and service can reach numerous farmers and communities that need it the most.

'Save Citrus' is supported by

• U.S Environmental Protection Agency President’s Environmental Youth Award- 1 in 7 students awarded in the nation

• Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Largest high school research and impact competition globally; awarded 1 st Grand Prize and Top Award for Fundamental Research in advancing real-world problems by Nobel Prize Winner)

• Citrus Research and Development Foundation (CRDF)

• United States Department of Agriculture

• Cornell University and the University of Florida

• Raytheon Technologies Invention Convention U.S. Nationals 2nd Place & 3rd Place and Agriculture and Environment Industry Award

• United Nations Ocean Decade

• National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration