About

Research Overview
I am currently a postdoctoral researcher in the Earth and Planetary Sciences Department at the University of California at Santa Cruz (UCSC). My research uses geochemical tracers to better understand water, carbon, nutrient, and trace metal cycling in freshwater and marine ecosystems. I apply these tools across diverse and complex landscapes as well as in the context of new (wildfire), ongoing (climate change), and pre-existing disturbances (wastewater). Many of my projects are in collaboration with the USGS California Water Science Center.

Most of my research has focused on landscapes with direct coastal connections, like the reefs of O‘ahu, Hawai‘i, as well as the estuaries and rivers along California's central coast.

I also dedicate time to mentoring and building GEMS (Geosciences Education and Mentorship Support), a free virtual program for those seeking support and guidance in applying to graduate school and/or fellowships in the geosciences.

View Curriculum Vitae

Background
I graduated from UCSC with a B.S. in Marine Biology and a minor in Earth Sciences in 2012. After graduating, I joined the USGS to learn more about groundwater monitoring at the land-sea interface. After working for two years at the USGS to refine my research skills and goals, I returned to school to study coastal groundwater dynamics. From 2014 through 2016, I worked alongside Dr. Henrietta Dulai at the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa as a M.S. student, where I studied the effects of wastewater effluent on groundwater and coastal water quality. After obtaining my M.S., I returned to UCSC to pursue my Ph.D. under Dr. Adina Paytan, where I remain currently.

Side Interests
I am Swiftwater Rescue and Open Water Diver certified. In between degrees, I spent two summers as a commercial whitewater raft guide. In 2014, I obtained and still maintain my nationally-registered emergency medical technician certification to fulfill my secondary interests in emergency medicine.