I am a professor of Science Education in the Department of Teacher Learning & Community Engagement. In addition to my teaching and research, I serve as co-PI on our Noyce Fellowship, a co-lead for the ASSERT program, and as a co-PI for our CREST Center for Semiconductors Research. 

I earned my Ph.D. in physics from the University of Maryland. During my time in graduate school, I became bothered by the disconnect between the creative, playful and idiosyncratic work that characterized my work in the research lab and the very procedural, structured, and rote activities that characterized most classrooms. 

At Boise State University, my research focuses on students’ agency in scientific inquiry, and how science instruction can foster creative, relevant inquiry. I also work to ensure that we have a well-prepared and well-supported cadre of science teachers for our schools.