My PhD has focused on the deformation of rock-forming minerals using micromechanical techniques (i.e. nanoindentation and micropillar compression). Through my research I have gained expertise using a Hysitron Trioboindenter for mechanical testing of geologic materials at temperatures of 23 - 800 °C. I have gained proficiency using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) to characterize samples prior to testing and image samples before and after testing. I have also gained proficiency using a focused ion beam (FIB) to produce micropillars for use in micropillar compression experiments.One of my main responsibilities is as an instrument manager for the nanoindneter; I train new users and help them to troubleshoot problems as they arise, with collaboration with engineers at Bruker/Hysitron when necessary. Additionally, I have mentored two undergraduate students through multi-year long projects using the nanoindenter. In mentoring, I trained the students on the necessary instruments, provided guidance on understanding methodology and determining the next steps in their projects, and provided feedback on written work. Because nanoindentation and micropillar compression are more commonly used in engineering and materials science, I have been interfacing with engineers, material scientists, and geologists to determine the best ways to incorporate these techniques into the field of rock deformation.Another major part of my work is writing scripts in MATLAB to analyze deformation data. In order to compare the results of my experiments to those of previous investigations, I have developed several MATLAB scripts to use different models to determine experimental yield stresses and construct constituent flow laws for low- temperature plasticity.

During the first three years of my PhD, I was an Assistant to the Instructor (AI) for two classes: Earth and the Environment, and Natural Disasters. In my role as an AI, I had many duties including running a lab section for new earth scientists, writing and grading assignments and exams, and holding office hours to help students better understand the subjects taught in the lectures.

As a tutor, I helped high school and college students work through assignments and practice problems to help them better understand the concepts they were learning in their math (e.g. algebra and calculus) and physics courses. I would present the students with different methods and helpful tips so they could solve the problems in ways that made sense to them.Subjects I tutored in include: algebra; linear algebra; differential, integral, and vector calculus; kinetics and mechanics; electromagnetism.

During my masters degree at UCSD, my research focused on developing finite difference models of the electric and magnetic fields produced by flowing lava in lava tubes as well as developing instruments to measure these fields. I used MATLAB to model the electric, magnetic, and potential fields in one and two dimensions produced by conductive lava moving through a magnetic field. I worked closely with the lab engineer to develop and test high impedance electrodes for use on highly resistive materials (e.g. basalt or concrete), which gave me a basis to develop my problem solving skills on instruments later in my academic career.Additionally, I assisted in the testing, maintenance, and preparation of seafloor electromagnetic instruments for deployment both in the lab and at sea.