I received my Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Minnesota, where I studied antivirulence strategies targeting bacterial signaling pathways. I did my postdoctoral research in the laboratory of Laura Sanchez at University of California, Santa Cruz, where I developed mass spectrometry–based approaches for studying and engineering bioactive small molecules. My current research focuses on quorum sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, including the biosynthesis and analysis of quorum-sensing signaling molecules and their analogs. Beyond research, I am passionate about undergraduate mentorship, inclusive teaching, and creating research experiences that help students grow as scientists. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my dog, London, including hiking, swimming, and biking, and I still play water polo and basketball whenever I get the chance.
Exploring Microbial Communication