BS – University of Delaware, B.S. (Biochemistry)
PhD – University of California San Diego (Biomedical Sciences)
Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (Neuroscience)

A first-generation college student, I began my career as an undergraduate researcher at the University of Delaware, where I conducted exploratory organometallic synthesis and molecular biology research before earning my BS in Biochemistry. At UCSD, my Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences focused on the molecular interactions of protein kinase C with model membranes. As a postdoctoral researcher at UT Southwestern, I investigated the basic enzymology of gamma-secretase and its role in Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis.

Scholarship

I began my career as a scientist-educator at Juniata College, chairing the Chemistry & Biochemistry Department from 2020 to 2024 and co-directing its Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Center from 2022-2024. Since Fall 2024, I’ve been at Chapman University, focusing on chemistry education research in areas like student and instructor motivation, science identity, and interest development, as well as STEM professional development. My teaching approach is student-centered, employing social constructivist principles with emphasis on active learning, team learning, and alternative grading.

National & International Service

Active in the scientific community, I’ve held leadership roles within the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), including Northeast Regional Co-Director for Student Chapters and Education Associate, contributing to their national exam. Furthermore, I chair the Fellowships Committee and serve on the Education and Training Committee of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB), supporting the advancement of trainees and young investigators. I am also a member of the Editorial Board for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, an international education journal of IUBMB.