My Research Path
I am an evolutionary ecologist interested in the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of host-parasite interactions. I am currently a postdoctoral researcher working with Dr. Xiang-Yi Li Richter at the University of Konstanz studying the influence of the local environment on host-parasite interactions.
From 2021 to 2026, I held postdoctoral positions at the University of Edinburgh studying how the local environment and parasites affect the social and spatial dynamics of red deer on the Isle of Rum; and at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev studying the ecological drivers of the infection dynamics of Bartonella in gerbils.
In 2021, I earned my Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas with research centered on understanding host-parasite interactions within food webs. I completed my M.Sc. at the University of Bremen in 2016 and conducted my master’s research on morph differences in larval survival at Lund University. In 2013, I completed my B.Sc. from the University of Missouri working on a project examining the effects of anthropogenic noise on anuran communication.
My research focuses on examining:
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How parasitism drives variation in species interactions within food webs
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How hosts influence parasite evolution
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How parasites influence host evolution
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How coinfection by multiple parasites varies across environmental gradients
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How host immune defenses vary across environmental gradients (and the possible indirect effects on parasitism)
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How the impact of land use change, disturbance, and climate change affect host species and their parasites
As parasites are ubiquitous, this has given me a unique opportunity to work with a wide variety of species such as Bengal tigers, red deer, gerbils, grey tree frogs, dragonflies, damselflies, and various plant species. At the parasite level I’ve worked with water mites, gregarines, gastrointestinal helminths, blood-born bacteria, and mistletoe. I am a question-driven researcher so I enjoy using differing host species to test a plethora of questions at the intersection of community ecology, evolutionary biology, and disease ecology.
If you are interested in seeing my work, then please see the Research and Publications sections. If you would like to inquire about potential collaborations, ask a question, or just chat about some cool research, please Contact me.
About Me
he/him
I've always had a deep appreciation for nature which is what led me to the field of ecology. What drives my research is trying to understand the intricacies of the natural world, specifically the dynamic connections and processes within ecological communities. Natural systems are complex, varied, and nuanced, so to me it is important to have a holistic approach to properly see and understand the bigger picture.
In my downtime, I enjoy backpacking, rock climbing, birding, gaming, and making pizza. Lots of pizza. I am also a proud cat dad.
Nature is Diverse
STEM should be as diverse as nature is. BIPOC, queer, trans, and disabled academics, researchers, field and lab technicians face innumerable challenges. It is vital that we speak out on behalf of one another, to be role models for future scientists and stewards of nature, as well as to showcase to the status quo that we are unafraid and capable. As a proud member of the queer community, it is important to me to uplift and highlight marginalized voices.
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Our mission is to provide accessible and inclusive STEM opportunities for disabled and neurodivergent children and young people, empowering them to discover, explore, learn, lead, and benefit from STEM. We will celebrate their achievements, foster collaboration, influence the STEM sector, and inform policy.