CURRENT RESEARCH
My research is centered around understanding how anthropogenic and climate-driven changes such as species invasions and altered nutrient regimes affect estuarine ecosystems. I am currently studying the invasive macroalga Gracilaria vermiculophylla along the North Carolina coast, investigating its distribution, reproductive strategies, and interactions with other species. Through field surveys, mesocosm experiments, and genetic analyses, I hope to uncover how this species alters habitat structure, nutrient cycling, and community dynamics.
I am passionate about ecosystem health and sustainability, water quality, and the complex ecological interactions that shape coastal environments. My work seeks to inform more effective management and conservation strategies in a rapidly changing world.
About Me.
I was born and raised in North Carolina, not far from Jordan Lake, and spent many summers visiting the NC coast with my family. I first became interested in water quality during an undergraduate internship, which inspired me to complete my final semester at UNC’s Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS). It was there that I discovered my passion for coastal ecology.
After graduating, I continued working at IMS before returning to UNC for graduate school, where I’m now pursuing my PhD in coastal and estuarine ecology.
Education
August 2023 - Present
PhD Student
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Environment, Ecology and Energy Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Research Focus: Ecological Impacts and Interactions of the Invasive Species Gracilaria vermiculophylla on Estuarine Ecosystems along the Coast of North Carolina
January 2019 - December 2021
B.A. Environmental Studies
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Received a B.A. in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Ecology & Society.
Independent Research Project: The Role of Nutrient Limitation on the Occurrence and Composition of Harmful Algal Blooms
August 2017 - December 2018
Pre Public Health
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Pre Public-Health. Studies were focused on introductory science courses as well as human and environmental health.