I work closely with Jim Dodenhoff on sustainability consulting, where I’ve gained valuable insights into the energy industry and resiliency planning. My experiences have deepened my understanding of sustainable solutions, renewable energy, and energy efficiency projects.Thought Leadership Project:I assisted in preparing and researching a webinar for the Association of Energy Engineers on “Workforce Development and Sustainability.” This project involved analyzing industry trends, exploring skill gaps in sustainability roles, and helping align job seekers with hiring firms.Feasibility Analysis for Portable LED Lighting:I researched the transition from diesel-powered LED lighting to solar-powered alternatives with energy storage. I conducted cost-benefit and environmental impact analyses, proposing scalable and sustainable solutions across various industries.EPA Solar for All Program:I researched and developed analysis and presentation materials for the EPA’s $7 Billion Solar for All program. This work included exploring federal solar initiatives, state-specific programs, and the economic impact on underserved communities to support stakeholder engagement and funding.Energy Audit for Santa Monica College:I participated in an energy audit at Santa Monica College, analyzing energy consumption patterns and identifying actionable steps to reduce energy use and lower the campus’s carbon footprint.

The lab focuses on paleoclimate research, using natural compound chemistry and modeling to study climate change, carbon transfer, and ocean systems. I collaborated with PhD student Hannah Tandy on a project analyzing foraminifera species to understand historical climate patterns.Sample Processing:Led the cleaning, sieving, and filtration of marine sediment samples for isotope analysis, ensuring precision in preparation.Data Analysis and Species Identification:Used microscopy to identify and classify foraminifera species, preparing samples for isotope ratio mass spectrometry to measure carbon and oxygen levels for reconstructing past ocean conditions.Research Contribution:Contributed to understanding historical carbon dioxide levels and their influence on climate across ocean depths, providing insights for paleoclimate models.

I had the privilege of studying under Dr. Robin Dunkin, focusing on marine mammal biology and ecology. My research involved collecting and conducting necropsies on 90 stranded pinnipeds and cetaceans to determine causes of death. I also led community ocean cleanups, such as the Survey Slugs initiative, addressing human-caused marine debris. As the primary author of "Classifying Causes of Death in Marine Mammal Strandings," I presented my findings at the UCSC CAMINO 2023 Symposium. These experiences have honed my research skills, deepened my understanding of marine ecology, and strengthened my commitment to marine conservation.

Under the guidance of Professor Michael Loik, I conducted research on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions using technologies such as dataloggers, spectrometers, and microcontrollers. I contributed to the design of a solar thermal storage system for clean energy in UC Santa Cruz’s agricultural sector, demonstrating my commitment to sustainable solutions.Additionally, I collaborated on a project studying plant stressors and greenhouse efficiency, focusing on energy, water, and fertilizer optimization. These experiences have strengthened my skills in environmental research and sustainable technology, preparing me to contribute to future initiatives in climate change mitigation and sustainable development.