Betsabe Mantilla is a dedicated scientist, leader, and advocate for women and Hispanics in STEM. Originally from Ecuador, she earned her B.Sc. in Biotechnology from Universidad San Francisco de Quito, and her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Genetics at Iowa State University. Since joining Monsanto/Bayer in 2018, she has excelled as a Spring Wheat Breeder and later as the North America Soybean Product Design Lead, contributing to innovative solutions and significant economic impact for Bayer.

Recognized for her scientific and advocacy work, Betsabe received accolades such as the 2022 “WiSE Woman of the Year Award” and honors for her soybean breeding advancements. She mentors diverse graduate students, speaks at international forums, and collaborates with “Plant Breeders without Borders” to support farmers in marginalized communities.

Currently, Betsabe participates in the Hispanic Leadership Institute and continues promoting diversity, inclusion, and innovation through her outreach and leadership roles. She is passionate about serving farmers globally and aligning her work with Bayer’s mission of “Health for all, Hunger for none.”