I joined the Davies lab in the summer of 2020 as a Postdoctoral Researcher after completing my PhD in URI’s Cell and Molecular Biology department studying the proteome response of the chloroplast of diatoms, a group of phytoplankton, to changes in iron concentration. In 2023 I transitioned to a Marine Research Associate position in the Davies Lab.
What made you decide to go into marine science?
My scientific interest has always been focused on the understanding of how organisms interact and are shaped by their environment, particularly at the molecular level. During my grad degree I was fortunate enough to participate in a marine research cruise, where I was exposed to the effort and interdisciplinary collaboration that goes into understanding our world’s oceans. I have continued to become more enamored with marine research, the complex questions it helps to answer, and the community of researchers that has been built around it.
What is the focus of your research/work? What do you think is the most important takeaway from your research?
My work is focused on environmental characterization of marine environments. This work is divided across both Narragansett Bay, utilizing two autonomous buoy platforms to collect high resolution environmental data, as well as the characterization of cold-water coral reef ecosystems through the deployment of large benthic lander platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.
What is the coolest thing you’ve done through your work?
My work has given me the ability to participate in research cruises around the world, as well as many opportunities to develop new skills such as small boat operations and research scuba diving certifications.
What is one fun fact about you?
Before going to graduate school, I worked as a veterinary technician and am still a huge animal lover with three cats of my own. In my free time I enjoy competing with friends in both fighting games and tabletop games.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Probably controlling the weather, no more cancelled field days!