Maricelis Acevedo earned a PhD (2007) in Biology with a specialization in Plant Pathology from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Currently, she is a Research Professor and the Associate Director for Science of the Delivering Genetic Gain in Wheat project in the Department of Global Development at Cornell University. She works side by side with wheat scientists (breeders, geneticists and plant pathologists) around the world to develop and deliver wheat varieties that are high-yielding and disease-resistant. She also contributes to the wheat breeding and pathology capacities of the National Agriculture Research Programs in Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Asia by providing guidance and support for research infrastructure and providing training opportunities for junior scientists.