Science

My research currently focuses on biophysical mechanisms of soil carbon storage from microbial to global scales. I am particularly interested in developing tools and metrics to support land management that promotes both ecosystem function and soil carbon storage. My current work in soil carbon cycling builds on my deep experience studying soil nutrient cycling; much of my past research has focused on nitrogen and phosphorus cycling, with a particular eye for how complex interactions can result in unexpected phenomena.

My CV is here. Full-text copies of my research articles are available on my ResearchGate profile.

Past work:

Global nutrient cycling — From 2020-2021, I led the INCyTE Research Coordination Network, a group of biogeoscientists working to improve nutrient cycling representation in Earth system models. I was also a part of a working group at the USGS Powell Center focused on improving estimates of global nitrogen fixation rates, patterns, and controls.

Soil carbon storage and data-driven climate policy — Storing carbon in soils via sustainable agricultural practices is promoted as a means of climate change mitigation, but will it work? As a postdoc at UC Davis/The Nature Conservancy, I explored the role of soil microbes in building soil carbon and what that means for the longevity of soil carbon sequestered through agricultural management practices.

Plant-soil-microbe interactions in the nitrogen cycle — My dissertation research focused on diverse biogeochemical interactions between organisms large and small. Some favorite projects include investigating how weathering of nitrogen-rich rocks affects soil microbial processes, and how nitrogen-fixing trees alter soil metal cycling (through the NSF GRIP program).

Feminist methodologies for evaluating environmental education — As part of my work with GOALS at UC Davis, I've helped develop research frameworks to study transformative experiences in environmental education in ways that center relationships, care, and community knowledge.

Peatland ecology and biogeochemistry — I worked as a research assistant in Dr. Melanie Vile's peatland ecosystem ecology lab at Villanova University from 2009-2013. My undergraduate honors thesis tested molybdenum and phosphorus limitation of nitrogen fixation in boreal peatlands using field and lab experiments.