Graduate Research Assistant (PhD) | University of North Texas Denton, TX | Fall 2025 – Present *
Current Research: Investigating freshwater ecology and fisheries conservation under the supervision of Dr. Zacchaeus Compson.
Key Project: Leading the DISTANCE project, examining environmental DNA (eDNA) transport dynamics across National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) sites.
Methodology: Utilizing advanced molecular tools, including population genomics and eDNA assays, to inform science-based conservation policy.
Graduate Research Assistant (MS) | Mississippi State University Starkville, MS | Fall 2023 – Spring 2025 *
Master’s Thesis: Environmental DNA assay development and population genomics research on invasive Misgurnus spp. (Pond Loach) introduced to the United States.
Natural Resources Technician | Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife Fairport Harbor, OH | May 2023 – August 2023 *
Fisheries Management: Executed fishery-independent sampling using gill nets, bottom trawls, and electrofishing on Lake Erie.
Surgical Experience: Assisted in acoustic and external tagging surgeries for Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu).
Data Science: Leveraged R for statistical analysis, age estimation (otolith extraction), and diet analysis to support annual research reports.
Intern / Sample Archives Assistant | Medpace Reference Laboratories Cincinnati, OH | March 2022 – December 2022 *
Laboratory Foundation: Managed biological sample archiving and aliquoting within a high-throughput reference laboratory environment.
Security Aide | Kent State Department of Residential Services Kent, OH | 2020 – 2021 *
Coordinated with campus law enforcement to ensure community safety and foster an inclusive environment.
Pizza Maker / Cook / Waiter | Brooklyn Pizza and Pasta Cincinnati, OH | 2016 – 2022 *
Service & Operations: Maintained high-quality food preparation and customer service standards in a fast-paced environment for six years while completing high school and undergraduate studies.
Reliability: Demonstrated long-term professional commitment and the ability to balance rigorous academic schedules with full-service restaurant responsibilities.