About Me

I completed my Ph.D. in Biology at Portland State University (PSU) under the supervision of Dr. Jason Podrabsky. Before PSU, I attended Whitman College (Walla Walla, WA), where I received my B.A. in Biology. I was fortunate enough to attend a private small liberal arts college, where teaching and undergraduate mentoring were highly emphasized. This emphasis has stuck with me and I want to continue that in my career as an educator and mentor.

As a first-generation American and college graduate and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I recognize that having role models with whom students can relate to has a powerful effect on them. I view mentoring as an opportunity for me to promote the representation of underrepresented groups in the scientific community, by encouraging scientific growth of students that have had limited exposure to research.

In my spare time, you can find me in the kitchen mixing up a batch of cookie dough or crafting up a cocktail. I believe food and drink are best shared, so you can check out some of my creations on my site. Perhaps, you may see a baked good coming to classroom near you.