I am a bench-trained biologist pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Infectious Disease at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health. Currently, I am studying tick and tick-borne pathogen biology, investigating factors that influence the ability of pathogens to circulate in nature. I have professional experience at the Mayo Clinic, Minnesota Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety (MCOHS). I love learning and am passionate about teaching students methods to enhance their understanding of complex subjects.