I began my journey in plant biology after a nontraditional start in higher education, earning my B.S./M.S. in Biotechnology at the University of Nevada, Reno. I went on to complete my Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where I developed a passion for understanding how plants use calcium signaling to coordinate responses to their environment.

​

As a postdoctoral researcher in Sheng Yang He’s lab at Duke University, I expanded this work to explore how climate-associated factors such as temperature disrupt calcium-mediated immunity. I was awarded a USDA–NIFA Postdoctoral Fellowship to investigate how calcium signaling underlies effector-triggered immunity (ETI), with a focus on how temperature compromises calcium influx and immune resilience. 

​

Each stage of my career has reinforced my dedication to both research and mentorship. My own experiences navigating geographic and educational barriers have deepened my commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where students can thrive and feel valued.

​

I grew up in Nikiski, Alaska, where I spent much of my childhood outdoors at the beach commercial salmon fishing with my family during the summers and snowmachining during the winter. I continue to find inspiration near water and in natural landscapes. Outside the lab, I enjoy reading, writing, video games, playing guitar,  playing with my cat, and meditation.