Marlen started with the Commission in spring 2025. She is thrilled to be a research assistant at WTFRC. Marlen gets to support our amazing researchers in Phase 3 of an exciting apple breeding program, along with a variety of other innovative projects and experiments. She will help with diverse tasks, from evaluating the quality of different apple varieties to meticulously following the steps of Phase 3 and engaging in dynamic lab work. She’s excited for this fantastic opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research!
Marlen was born in the vibrant city of Indianapolis, Indiana, but she grew up in the charming small town of Royal City, Washington. Marlen proudly graduated high school in Royal City in 2024 and then set her sights on earning her transfer degree at WSU through Wenatchee Valley College. Marlen’s journey is fully dedicated to horticulture and tree fruit science.
Marlen grew up in Royal City with her three younger siblings, and amazing parents, Maria Valencia and Pedro Rosales. Now, she’s happily living with her wonderful husband and their adorable little Corgi, Mable. Marlen enjoys outdoor adventures such as camping, golfing and agricultural tasks. She spent a few years showing swine at livestock shows, which was her main passion. Now, she’s the proud president of the WVC Ag Club, and she treats that like a fun hobby too!
