Microbiome Scientist | Plant Pathologist | Research Strategist

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I’m a microbiome scientist and plant pathologist, and my work lives at the nexus of plant biology, microbial ecology, and global change biology. I study how soil- and plant-associated microbial communities shape plant health, development, and resilience—especially under stressors like drought, disease, and environmental disturbance. My research integrates field sampling and manipulative experimentation with molecular and computational tools, including multi-omics (metagenomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, etc.). I’ve worked across a range of plant systems, from perennial crops (citrus) to native prairie grasses and maize, always with a focus on understanding and harnessing the plant microbiome to support the development of conservation and sustainable agricultural management strategies.

 

At the same time, I’ve built valuable skills in leading complex, interdisciplinary research initiatives. As the Research Project Manager of the Penn State One Health Microbiome Center, I’ve helped grow a research community of over 500 members, developed major training and outreach programs, and led high-impact grant development—including multi-million-dollar proposals to NIH and NSF. I’ve also forged partnerships with biotech companies, coordinated a transdisciplinary Symposium, managed Center operations, and designed public-facing science communication efforts across platforms.

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Lastly, as a first-generation college student and woman in science, I’m passionate about equity, access, and creating inclusive spaces in research and education. I’m particularly invested in building innovative plant and microbiome science programs that bridge basic molecular biology with real-world, translational solutions.