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 (e.g., radioisotopes and stable isotopes) to better understand water, 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) and pre-existing disturbances (wastewater). Most of my research has focused on landscapes with direct coastal connections, like the reefs of Oahu, Hawaii, 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. All students should have access to the support and resources they need to be successful and feel like they belong in STEM.

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 Hawaiʻi at Manoa as a M.S. student, where I studied the effects of on-site sewage disposal system effluent on groundwater 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 also 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.