For her PhD Angélica is studying what is anatomically special in the lianescent family Vitaceae that allows their members to thrive in such a diverse range of habitats, from the equador to the semi-artic zones, from tropical lowland forests, semi-arid regions, to high mountains, something unique to this family. Also, Angélica will be tracking how lianescent features might have been co-opted in the evolution of succulent shrubs in deserts in Vitaceae.