Originally from Southern California, I am working on my PhD in Evolutionary Biology at The University of Chicago. My focus is conservation genomics, speciation, molecular evolution, zoology, captive population management, & illegal wildlife trafficking policy. I obtained my BA in Environmental Biology from Columbia University and MS in Environmental Science & Policy from Johns Hopkins University.

I have a year old Dusky-headed conure, named Vega and a 4-month Black-capped conure, named Sky. I'm a sci-fi/fantasy & anime fan and I'm archer and cyclist.