About Me

I am from a small town in Tennessee where I grew up with an appreciation for education and practical knowledge of how things work. This naturally led me to pursue Microbiology research as an undergrad at The University of Tennessee where I began to be interested in the connections between microbes and the environment. 

Breaking from my non-agrarian roots, I pursued my masters in Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech under Dr. Katie Lewis (grad. 2018), where we investigated greenhouse gas production under soil conservation practices. I was able to continue this research while pursuing my Ph.D. at Texas A&M under Dr. Terry Gentry and Dr. Lewis (grad. 2021) where we focused more on the microbial drivers of greenhouse gas emissions and the temporal changes that occur with the implementation of conservation practices.

Outside of research, I have been able to have a variety of developmental experiences throughout my career including teaching two courses at Texas A&M during my Ph.D., participation in and leading delegations to advocate for increased science research funding, serving as head of the graduate committee, and participating in an intensive two-week course covering team-science, management, and inter-disciplinary research. 

In my free time I enjoy food—both cooking and trying new cuisines—reading biographies and science fiction/fantasy, being active, and playing games with friends.