Faculty and Staff Directory

Introduction

I am interested in how DNA is duplicated, packaged, modified, read and repaired at the molecular level. I earned my Ph.D. from the University of Washington and carried out my thesis research at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center. My research focused on how the process of copying DNA (something that must happen with high fidelity between every generation in every organism) is affected by enzymes that change the shape and organization of entire chromosomes. During that time in graduate school, I also discovered my love for teaching after serving as a TA in biochemistry and microbiology courses. After finishing my degree, I was able to teach introductory biology and genetics courses at local universities, which gave me motivation to pursue a career focused on teaching.

At UWT, I primarily teach courses in our Biomedical Sciences major including Genetics & Genomics and Molecular Biology. I use a variety of teaching methods to make science as approachable as possible and include authentic research experiences within many of the courses I teach.

Current Research

Because I am a teaching professor, my scholarship is done in the context of structured courses where I mentor undergraduates on genetics-focused projects. Currently I focus on the following research areas in those contexts:

1. Modifying genes to better understand the function of the kinetochore, a key structure required for ensuring cells have the correct amount of DNA.
2. Training students to annotate genes as a part of the Genomics Education Partnership.

Teaching

Courses most commonly taught:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Molecular Biology
• Biomedical Research Experience
• Foundational Skills in Biomedical Sciences
• Introductory Biology II and III
• General Microbiology