About me
I am a PhD Student in the McKenzie Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder. My research involves applying classic community ecology theory to microbial systems, especially in the context of microbial invasion by potential pathogens. Currently, I am working on a project that tries to understand how probiotics work and how we can increase their efficacy in preventing microbial diseases.
I have a Master’s degree from the University of British Columbia (Parfrey Lab). For my Master’s, I looked at the various factors that control microbial settlement on seaweeds. I conducted two experiments to test (a) whether seaweed shape interacted with water flow to differentially effect microbial settlement on seaweed surfaces and (b) whether seaweeds growing in close proximity share microbes with each other. During this time, I was also a part of the Botany Graduate Student’s Association, which is a group that organizes various academic and non-academic events for Botany Graduate students.
Lastly, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree from the University of British Columbia in Honours Biology. For my undergraduate thesis (Parfrey Lab), I studied the shifts that occur in water column microbial communities along large salinity gradients. My previous work experience also includes a position in the Berbee Lab as a Fungal Research Assistant.
In my spare time, I enjoy drinking coffee, hiking, running, and playing the ukulele. I also love exploring the wonderful selection of breweries that exist here in Colorado.
