I am an ecological and evolutionary biologist, broadly trained in organismal and molecular biology, with college level teaching experience. Currently, I am an Assistant Professor of Biology at Missouri Western State University. Previously, I was an NSF postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Biological Sciences at North Carolina State University, working in the genetics lab of Dr. Reade Roberts, associated with the W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology. My doctorate was completed in the Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University with Dr. Krista Nichols.
My research focuses on the mechanisms and adaptive significance of complex traits in fishes. I use behavioral experiments, comparative approaches, and genomic & bioinformatic tools to understand the generation and maintenance of the variations we can observe in nature.
Learn more about my projects below.
A sample of the techniques used in my research.
Locations of my research and studies.
Courses I have taught, TA'd, and guest lectured.
Assistant Professor, Avila UniversityBI111 - General Biology: Cells & Genes (Fall 2018, Spring 2019)
A survey of cell theory (cellular structure and function) and gene theory (molecular genetics and Mendelian genetics) that illustrated the nature and limits of science and two of the fundamental concepts of the life sciences. Elements of evolutionary theory are discussed throughout the course with examples from all kingdoms.
Assistant Professor, Avila UniversityBI112 - General Biology: Ecology and Evolution (Spring 2019)
Examine the basic tenets of the theory of evolution and the extensive scientific evidence that supports the theory. A survey of the history of life, with special attention given to the origins and maintenance of biological diversity. Includes how evolutionary theory illuminates our understanding of ecology, the study of interactions between living organisms and their environment.
Assistant Professor, Avila UniversityBI112 Lab - General Biology: Ecology and Evolution (Fall 2018, Spring 2019)
Introduce students to method of experimental design, analysis, and communication of scientific information.
Assistant Professor, Avila UniversityBI318 - Genetics (Fall 2018)
Principles of hereditary nature, transmission, and function of genetic material; and genetics of populations. (integrated lab)
Assistant Professor, Avila UniversityBI318 - Evolution (Spring 2018)
A descriptive overview examining theories regarding processes by which life forms evolve, chemical evolution and origins o life, organismal evolution, and population genetics and dynamics.
Adjunct Faculty, Motlow CollegeAP100 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I
Introductory course and labs for students pursuing degrees and programs of study such as nursing, pre-occupational therapy, pre-physical therapy, and other pre-health professions.
Teaching Assistant, Purdue University
BIOL110 - Fundamentals of Biology I (1 semester)
An introduction to the principles of biology for students in agriculture and health sciences. Responsible for weekly labs and recitations for multiple sections each semester.
Teaching Assistant, Purdue University
BIOL111 - Fundamentals of Biology II (3 semesters)
An introduction to the principles of biology for students in agriculture and health sciences. Responsible for weekly labs and recitations for multiple sections each semester.
Guest Lecturer, NC State
AEC441 - Biology of Fishes
Gave guest lecture in Biology of Fishes (AEC441) on sex determination in fishes.
Guest Lecturer, NC State
GN451 - Genome Science
Gave guest lecture in Genome Science (GN451) on targeted sequencing in addition to being a guest panel member for student presentations.
Some of my many activities outside the lab and classroom.
Active mentor in the Kenan Fellows Program, the largest STEM-focused teacher leadership program in North Carolina and a nationally recognized provider of professional development for educators. The program focuses on the development of curriculum the fellow can implement in their classroom and share among other educators.
Mentoring undergraduates has been a focus in my research since the beginning. From getting students involved with working in the lab to taking a student on field work in Alaska, my goal has been to foster long-term relationships with students and their interest in science.
Taught Weird Science and Trip Through the Rainforest and served as the course assistant for Endangered in the Super Saturday program which is an enrichment program for gifted students from age 4 through eighth grade hosted by the Gifted Education Resource Institute at Purdue University.
Photos from time in the field and lab.