From ASU to agritech: An alumna’s budding career in crop innovation
School of Life Sciences grad applies dual degrees in work at leading agricultural biotech firm
When severe thunderstorms roll into Des Moines, Iowa, Stephanie Temnyk is reminded of just how much her life has changed since leaving the desert landscapes of Arizona.
The ASU alumna, who earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees through the School of Life Sciences, part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has traded the dry heat for humid summers, snowy winters and a career at the forefront of agricultural biotechnology.
Leveraging college credits she earned in high school, she completed her undergraduate degree in molecular biosciences and biotechnology in just three years, then seamlessly transitioned into a 3+1 master’s program to earn her Master of Science in biology.
Her journey into plant biotechnology began unexpectedly.
Initially uncertain about her research direction, she connected with John McCutcheon, a microbiology professor whose lab would eventually become her academic home. When McCutcheon introduced her to plant geneticist Jessica Warren, Temnyk knew she had found her niche.
“It’s amazing how random conversations can lead to exactly where you want to be,” she recalled.
During her time in McCutcheon’s lab, Temnyk combined microbiology and plant biotech in her thesis research, gaining experience in molecular techniques that would later define her career.
Plant science in the Heartland
After graduating, Temnyk decided to pursue industry work, leading her to Corteva Agriscience, a global leader in seed genetics, crop protection and sustainable agriculture.
Today, she works in the company’s PCR Marker Technologies unit, designing assays to determine whether gene edits in crops, primarily corn and soybeans, were successful.
Her role bridges the research and application sides of biotechnology, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify DNA and identify targeted genetic changes.
“None of my days are the same,” she said. “I love that we’re not just producing results, we’re designing solutions.”
Corteva’s projects extend beyond genetic editing to innovations like crop biologicals, an emerging alternative to traditional fertilizers that supports plant health while reducing environmental impact.
Industry collaboration and career growth
One of Temnyk’s favorite aspects of industry work is the collaborative pace.
“In academics, you often focus on one project in isolation. In industry, it’s constant teamwork and fast paced, always moving forward,” she explained.
This culture, paired with supportive colleagues and a strong company focus on professional development, has made Corteva a place where she can see herself building a decades-long career.
Looking ahead, Temnyk hopes to expand her expertise into data analysis, especially as artificial intelligence reshapes the field.
“AI comes up in conversations every day. I want to position myself to work with it effectively,” she said.
Advice for students and soon-to-be grads
Temnyk acknowledges that breaking into industry can be daunting, especially in specialized fields like plant biotechnology.
“Connections make a difference,” she advised. “I applied online, but knowing people in the field can open doors, especially in companies that recruit regionally.”
Reflecting on her own journey, she remains grateful for the strong foundation the School of Life Sciences provided.
“I miss ASU. The faculty were incredible, and my time there truly prepared me for what I’m doing now.”