Nice to Meet You

Originally from California, I moved to Florida eight years ago to study sustainable agriculture at the University of Florida. After earning my master’s and Ph.D. in Soil and Water Sciences, I took on a postdoctoral role leading an interdisciplinary soil health project that focused on enhancing agricultural sustainability through the use of cover crops.

My work centers on developing innovative, cost-effective strategies to optimize farming systems. By enhancing the efficiency of agricultural inputs like fertilizers and incorporating sustainable practices such as cover cropping, I aim to balance productivity with environmental stewardship. Ensuring these solutions are accessible to farms of all sizes and economic scales is a central goal, helping to create a sustainable future for farming communities.

Outside the lab and field, I have a deep love for travel, exploring new cultures, and embracing diverse perspectives. These experiences enrich my worldview and inspire creative approaches to solving agricultural challenges.

My Key Skills

Research Expertise

Specializes in soil nutrient management, nitrogen use efficiency, soil health, and carbon dynamics
Focused on best management practices (BMPs), enhanced efficiency fertilizers, and the use of cover crops to improve agricultural sustainability
Experienced with advanced research techniques, including isotopic analysis using 15N to study nutrient dynamics

Passionate Educator

Experienced in teaching and mentoring the next generation of soil scientists, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable agricultural practices through hands-on training and collaborative learning
Committed to promoting early education in soil sciences, showcasing how a strong foundational knowledge can pave the way for impactful research and innovation
Earned the Preparing Future Faculty Certification, equipping me with advanced skills in teaching, course design, and academic leadership to excel as an educator in higher education

Extension

Active in promoting sustainable farming practices through workshops, stakeholder engagement, and collaborations with farmers and policymakers
Serve as a session moderator, conference judge, and journal reviewer, contributing to the academic and professional community
Coordinates UF/IFAS Certified Crop Advisor CEU Sessions, providing specialized training and continuing education in nutrient, irrigation, and pest management for agricultural professionals

Public Impact

Translate complex research findings into actionable recommendations for diverse audiences, from policymakers to farmers
Develop accessible resources on soil health, nitrogen management, and sustainable practices tailored to farms of all scales and economic backgrounds

Through my academic journey, I hope to illustrate how early education in the soil sciences serves as a vital foundation for advancing sustainable agricultural practices. From my undergraduate research in Earth System Science to my postdoctoral work on nutrient management and soil health, each step has reinforced the critical need to invest in education and mentorship in this field.