Mentoring & Outreach

Mentoring has become a very meaningful part of my work. Over the past several years, I have had the chance to get to know young researchers from across the United States and around the world as they hone broad interests into focused research questions of their own. One of the most rewarding moments is when a student moves from seeking the “right” answer to explaining what they think and why.

Research in ecology and global health often means confronting problems that can feel enormous and, at times, bleak. Working with students has given me a brighter outlook on the future. Their curiosity, ambition, and willingness to engage seriously with difficult questions continually restore my optimism and renew my own sense of purpose. They inspire me to continuing asking difficult questions and to do what I can to contribute to a healthier future for people, animals, and the environments we all share.

Mentoring

I mentor students across educational stages in developing independent research projects, interpreting scientific literature, analyzing data, and communicating their findings. My approach emphasizes helping students take ownership of their work while providing the structure and guidance needed to move from a broad interest to a focused, answerable question.

My current undergraduate mentees are developing complementary projects examining how antibiotic and pesticide co-exposure affects the gut, oral, and skin microbiomes. I have also mentored more than 60 independent student research projects spanning microbiology, ecology, environmental health, animal health, and data analysis.

Teaching and science communication

I enjoy making complex scientific ideas approachable to audiences with different levels of experience. My teaching has included ecology courses, research programs for undergraduate and pre-college students, and the design and instruction of a short course introducing nanopore sequencing.

I have also participated in public lectures, classroom visits, research conferences, science correspondence programs, and manuscript review for the Journal of Emerging Investigators, which publishes research conducted by middle and high school students.

Scientific community and service

I contribute to scientific communities focused on microbiology, One Health, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I currently serve as a Trustee of Applied Microbiology International and co-chair its One Health Advisory Group. I also serve on the Pacific Committee of the Microbiome Virtual International Forum.

Earlier service has included founding a microbial ecology journal club, mentoring through university research and orientation programs, supporting science correspondence between researchers and school students, and contributing to departmental and field-station committees.

Across these activities, I strive to help create scientific environments in which students and researchers feel supported in asking questions, learning new skills, and contributing their perspectives.