Research:

BIOLOGY GRADUATE RESEARCH

• Investigate the spread of Anisolabis maritima internationally using molecular techniques such as:
  • Perform both destructive and non-destructive genetic sampling techniques to obtain molecular data.
  • Develop new molecular sampling techniques for in order to obtain DNA from dried specimens.
  • Run modern laboratory techniques for amplifying and examining both nuclear and mitochondrial genes.
  • Sequence amplified samples via a 3130X Genetic Analyzer and analyze resulting data using current software and analytical techniques.
  • Collaborate with multiple museums and international scientists to obtain a robust sampling pool.

MARINE SCIENCE UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER

• Worked closely with graduate level researchers on the development of the University’s new ZooScan plankton identification system.
• Completed daily samplings of crab megalopa using passive hogs’ hair collectors.
• Properly preserved and identified common species of phytoplankton and zooplankton.
• Participated in, and will receive credit for, the Undergraduate Research experience in Marine Science (MAST 468) course.

UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE SUMMER SCHOLAR/SENIOR THESIS CANIDATE

• Published Results in the April 2018 Edition of the Journal of Insect Conservation: Roadside habitat impacts insect traffic mortality.
• Presented Summer findings as a poster at the UD Undergraduate Research & Service Scholar Symposium in August 2016
  • Lead a small team to investigate the effects of roadside barriers on insect traffic mortality.
  • Worked with Longwood Gardens in PA to design and execute methods for sampling.
  • Used the program R to organize data, generate graphs and plots.
• Presented Fall findings as a poster at the Northeastern Plant, Pest, and Soils Convention in January 2016 and the UD College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Symposium in May 2016.
  • Worked closely with graduate level researchers to build statistical models of the data.
• Presented Summer findings as a poster at the UD Undergraduate Research & Service Scholar Symposium in August 2015.
  • Led a research team investigating the effects of roadside habitat on insect traffic mortality.
  • Heavily involved in the collection of specimens in the field and care of live specimens in the lab.
  • Primarily responsible for collecting and storing the team’s data.
  • Often acted as team leader in the professor’s absence and set goals and schedules for the project.
  • Identified specimens collected in the field to lowest taxonomic level, often family.

SUPPORT ENGINEER

• Provides support for a wide variety of customers with varying IT related needs.
• Develops statistical analysis models and tools in languages such as R.
• Creates dynamic programs and displays to better visualize and understand data.
• Creates and utilizes machine learning algorithms.
• Passed training which included a series of examinations revolving around system performance, optimization, and day to day operation.
• Develops a varity of products based on customers' needs.

MOLLUSK AND INSECT COLLECTIONS INTERN

• Cataloged approximately 1000 shells across 200 genera using Specify™ software.
• Organized over 1000 native shells as part of updating and maintain the museum’s need to maintain accordance with phylogenetic standings.
• Organized and prepared an insect collection of over 500 research quality specimens.
• Identified over 500 insect specimens to the family level and over 400 shell specimens to the species level.
• Participated in the recovery and curation of humpback whale bones.
• Assisted in the curation of specimens already in the collection.

BIOLOGY TEACHING ASSISTANT

• Taught two lab sections of General Biology (I & II) to undergraduate students.
• Graded a variety of assignments in a timely and professional manner.
• Proctored examinations and quizzes for undergraduate students.

TUTOR

• Tutored students in Calculus (MATH 241, 221) and Entomology (ENWC 205).
• Explained difficult concepts and assisted students in their preparations for midterm exams.

LAB TECHNICIAN

• Worked with a select team of students to develop an electronic tool for the National Wildlife Federation.
• Constructed a database containing the locality and range of native plants across the United States.
• Analyzed and organized data relative to over 2000 genera of plants in over 12 states.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills by speaking on behalf of the team to the National Wildlife Federation representative.
• Assisted a graduate student in collecting data from the Cornell University's ebird site as part of a project assessing the importance and taxonomic diversity of insects in bird diets.

ELECTION JUDGE

• Issued voter access cards via electronic polling books for over 500 voters.
• Assured voting process integrity by checking the equipment, access cards, and ballots, including absentee ballots.
• Facilitated the voting process by escorting voters to the polls, explaining the operation of the voting machine, and checking voter documents.

VOLUNTEER MENTOR

• Provided mentoring and leadership to all incoming students.
• Assisted 4 students and other undergraduates requesting help throughout each academic year.
• Presented information at university-wide events about the College of Earth Ocean and Environment to about 150 perspective students.

VOLUNTEER TUTOR

• Tutored 25 students in Math, Reading, Science, History, and English. Included instruction on completion of assigned projects, helping 4 students achieve a B, required for a passing grade.
• Secured recognition by the program managers as a positive influence by clarifying difficult concepts and methods to students.