By Glenn Concepcion
“Science begins with curiosity — a seed that grows when we start asking why.”– Tiozon, 2025
You can often find Dr. Rhowell Tiozon, Jr., a young molecular biologist at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), hard at work studying the intricate biochemistry of plants, and observing how different rice molecules interact with the human body. Recently, he was able to put away his lab coat and don his literary hat as a published kid’s book author.
Told from the perspective of a fictional character, Isaac’s Journey: The Curious Plant Scientist, is a wonderfully illustrated children’s book that chronicles Tiozon’s own inspiring path, from a plant-fascinated youngster in the Philippines into a distinguished researcher who’s curiosity contributes to shaping global agriculture around the world.
The book, written in both Deutsch and English, was published in August 2025 by Misti Verlag. It was launched and featured at the prestigious Frankfurt Book Fair in October, and is currently available in libraries across Germany. Copies will soon be available in Philippine libraries, too.
“I want kids to know that science isn’t just labs and textbooks. It starts with simple curiosity–like wondering how a tiny seed grows into food that feeds billions,” Tiozon explains. “That early passion is what Isaac’s Journey is all about.”
Harvesting knowledge for Filipino farmers
The book sheds light on how research can be a force for transforming the lives of farmers and consumers in the Philippines—improving agricultural practices and increasing health benefits from plants. Dr. Tiozon’s dedication to studying plants, specifically rice, is what inspired his doctoral research focused on the genetic diversity of pigmented rice and its nutritional benefits, a crucial study given his specialization as a molecular biologist and biochemist at IRRI.
“My science work, studying the genetics of rice, is directly aimed at ensuring Filipino farmers have better, more nutritious crops,” Tiozon shares. “As an author, if my story helps inspire young children realize they can use science to uplift their own communities, that’s the greatest impact.”
Through his papers and research, Tiozon was recognized with the 2023 Gold Award for Young Cereal Scientists at KU Leuven, Belgium. In 2025, he received the MS Swaminathan Outstanding Research Award.
Before the Dr. Tiozon we know today, he was first Teacher Tiozon’s who earned his Chemistry education degree from Philippine Normal University in 2014. Later he pursued his Master’s in Chemistry at De La Salle University. During this time, he was already associated with IRRI, working as an affiliate scholar and eventually as a full-time researcher at IRRI’s Consumer-Driven Grain Quality and Nutrition Center.
His passion for plants eventually led him to a faraway land: Germany. Tiozon’s book shares his relatable challenges of adjusting to life in an unfamiliar country, alongside the profound experiences he gained. Through the ATSAF Academy scholarship, he pursued his PhD in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at the University of Potsdam. He also served as a PhD researcher at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, in conjunction with IRRI.
The science of storytelling
Bringing Isaac’s journey to life required more than just scientific expertise; it needed clear, compelling communication. Isaac’s Journey is a proud collaboration with his wife, Mikaela Zoe, a PhD candidate in Developmental Communication.
“Writing a book is tough, especially translating complex ideas into kid-friendly language. Having my wife, who is a linguistics pro, on my team was essential for polishing the narrative.”
He also had tremendous help from Precious Daluz, a longtime family friend and gifted artist, brought the story to vibrant life.
“Her bold lines and colors really helped tell the story in an engaging way for kids.”
Isaac’s Journey: The Curious Plant Scientist serves as an inspiring tale for young readers, showing them that a deep fascination with the world around them—like the simple yet remarkable power of a plant—can lead to a fulfilling career dedicated to positive change, both for themselves and the world around them.
“Just as a farmer plants a tiny seed and nurtures it into a life-sustaining crop, I hope this book plants a small seed of curiosity in the minds of children, cultivating a future generation of scientists.”
Isaac’s Journey: The Curious Plant Scientist
Written by Dr. Rhowell Tiozon Jr. & Mikaela Zoe Nery Tiozon
Illustrated by Precious Daluz
Published August 2025 by Misti Verlag Publishing, Germany
Full color, 42 pages, appropriate for ages 8 and up
Available in both English and German languages
ISBN: 978-3-945444-61-0
Limited copies of the book are available in the Philippines
at the IRRI Souvenir Shop at IRRI HQ, and from the author himself.
