Bio

I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at Cornell University working in the lab of Prof. Christopher Hernandez. My current work involves studying how the composition of the gut microbiome is related to bone. I completed graduate training under the supervision of Prof. Horst von Recum at Case Western Reserve University. During my graduate training, I was awarded a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (NSF GRFP) and a Fulbright Research Fellowship. My dissertation focused on the development of an antibiotic delivery system for poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) bone cement which improved upon several shortcomings of bone cement and allowed for 1) a more sustained release of antibiotic, 2) post-implantation antibiotic refilling, and 3) delivery through bacterial biofilm. My research has been recognized by the Society for Biomaterials as a recipient of the PhD Student Award for Outstanding Research in May 2020. During my undergraduate and graduate studies I have published 13 first-author publications. As an independent investigator, I aim to develop delivery systems that target specific microbes in the gut microbiome or that mimic the therapeutic functions of certain commensal species. Beyond my research endeavors I am particuarly passionate about education and have had the opportunity to serve as a mentor for 15 students during my training. I have participated in a variety of educational outreach endeavors in the US and internationally through National DNA Day, Reach the World K-12 education program, and volunteering with EducationUSA (US Department of State).