Why FSU?

I have been interested in the interaction of biology and chemistry since I was an undergraduate student. I got in contact with Dr. Sven Kranz whose lab specializes in researching biogeochemistry and phytoplankton, so it was a perfect match. I was also impressed by FSU's Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Science.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

Studying oceanography has always been a passion of mine since I was a child, and chemistry was something I developed a passion for in high school. As I was graduating, I knew that nothing outside those two interests would really drive me. It is amazing that my graduate education allows me to combine the fields of chemistry and oceanography.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My current research is trying to better understand climate in the past through research in the present. We are trying to determine how environmental stressors impact how phytoplankton use nitrogen isotopes in the ocean, and we can then use that information to infer how they could have been affected in the past. We are currently investigating how changes in light and iron impact phytoplankton.

Career aspirations

My biggest goal is to continue to help build a greater understanding of how ocean chemistry affects biology within the world’s oceans. I also desire to make higher education topics more accessible to people to better drive the flow of knowledge.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

If you a passionate about your topic, you should have no fear in graduate school, as your drive and curiosity will assist you greatly. Do not be afraid to make mistakes or to not fully understand things. Asking questions and failing are how we learn best.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I grew phytoplankton that are typically found in the Antarctic in Florida! I went on a research cruise to the Indian Ocean. I am currently using methods that have rarely been applied to my kind of work to improve our understanding. Lastly, I won 3rd Place Poster at the 9th Annual Southeastern Biogeochemistry Symposium.