Raymond F. Baker Center for Plant Breeding- Student Profile: Ashlyn Rairdin

Hometown: Plattsmouth, Nebraska 
Academic Background:

• B.S. in Biochemistry – University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Class of 2015
• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding with a Specialization in Predictive Plant Phenomics (P3) – Iowa State University, under Dr. Arti Singh

Ashlyn Rairdin is an accomplished and passionate Ph.D. student in Plant Breeding at Iowa State University. Her dedication to agricultural innovation and research has earned her the prestigious honor of being named one of the 2025 Women Impacting ISU, a recognition that highlights her significant contributions to the university community through her leadership, service, and research excellence.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Arti Singh, Ashlyn's research focuses on using cutting-edge technologies to advance plant breeding. She is working on utilizing drone-based imagery within the mung bean breeding program to predict yield and exploring the genetic basis of protein content in mung beans to enhance breeding decisions. Additionally, her involvement in high-throughput phenotyping projects incorporates advanced imaging and data analysis methods, which aim to improve the efficiency and accuracy of crop development. 

Ashlyn also plays an active leadership role as a co-leader of the Workforce in Ag and AI group, where she engages students from elementary to college levels through activities, workshops, and programs like 4H and Women in Science and Engineering. Her efforts inspire younger generations to explore agricultural research and envision the exciting possibilities for the future.

Outside of her academic and professional commitments, Ashlyn enjoys hiking, reading, and spending quality time with her dog. The Raymond F. Baker Center for Plant Breeding is excited to see all the work Ashlyn will do for the field of plant breeding in the future. She has shown immense dedication to advancing agricultural science while cultivating a future defined by sustainability and innovation.