I am a biologist, natural scientist and educator with a passion for conservation and the environment. Growing up in New York City, I developed an interest in the natural world around me, both in and outside the city. Over time, this interest matured into a passion for research and the natural sciences that has involved work close to and far from home. I have complimented many of my research efforts with outreach and education initiatives.
Research Interests
I have broad research interests in ecology and conservation biology that have involved experiences from across the globe, including New York, Ecuador/ Galapagos Islands, Australia, Peru, United Kingdom, India, and, most recently, Brazil. Research topics have included fish ecology, forest disturbance, carbon cycling, species diversity, flagship species, fisheries management, and more. My research has employed various field, laboratory, and analytical methods to solve real world conservation issues.
Most recently, my doctoral research has focused on the South American arapaima— a large and unique fish species that grows up to 3 m and 200 kg and breathes atmospheric air at regular interval. These research efforts have continued through the involvement of several institution and various research partners.