I am honored to be working in the Deheyn Lab during my Master of Advanced Studies program in the Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at SIO. Even through my upbringing in the desert of New Mexico I have always been intrigued with ocean, especially by the production of light by marine organisms. I am currently researching the neurotoxic effects of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) on a bioluminescent species of Brittle Star, Amphipholis squamata.

My interests are to learn more about the implications of contaminant loads that we are chronically exposed to by studying bioluminescence as an indicator of health. Through analyzing the effects of these emerging pollutants on the health of benthic marine organisms we can provide more information about their persistent effects the health of our bodies and environments. I hope to continue research that will allow the communication of science to the public regarding the effects of environmental health on our world at large.