Marine Biologist
I am a postdoctoral researcher at the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies (CICOES) at the University of Washington and the Northwest Fisheries Science Center at NOAA using environmental DNA (eDNA) to better understand the population structure and connectivity of harbor porpoises and Southern Resident Killer Whales. I received from PhD from UCLA studying Ecology and Evolutionary Biology in Professor Paul Barber's Lab where I used environmental DNA to research the effects of multiple human stressors on marine ecosystems. The main focus of my PhD was to use novel eDNA tools to comprehensively survey marine biodiversity inside and outside of Southern California's marine protected area network to better understand how different management strategies effect our local marine ecosystems. I have a background in coral reef and kelp forest ecology, and work at the intersection of research and policy, with a focus on understanding the interplay of local (pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction) and global (climate change and ocean acidification) stressors on marine ecosystems. I received a B.S. in Marine Biology with Honors from Stanford University in 2015 studying the growth patterns of thermally resilient Acropora hyacinthus under Professor Stephen Palumbi. As an avid surfer, former ocean lifeguard, Life Aquatic fan, and scientific scuba diver growing up Santa Monica, I have a deep passion for the marine environment and its protection from environmental impacts.
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Photographer
My passion for biology and protecting the environment inspired me to become an avid nature and conservation photographer. As a National Geographic Young Explorer I strive to use photography to communicate my science. Whether it's scuba diving in tropical reefs or backpacking in the Sierras, I strive to capture the fascinating beauty and function of our vital ecosystems and the environmental impacts that threaten them. I also get stoked taking pictures of food, street art, signs, flowers, and the beautiful world around us.
Environmentalist
As a long time environmental advocate with a deep passion for protecting our vital ecosystems and promoting environmental justice, I am a strong supporter of science based policy and individual action to address the rising threats climate change, ocean acidification, marine debris, food and water security, overfishing, habitat degradation, and pollution.
