As a marine molecular ecologist, I am continuously searching for innovative ways to develop and apply molecular tools to marine research. My undergraduate degree is in Marine Science and Biotechnology, and I currently study coral microbiomes and coral stress as part of my Ph.D. program. Corals host a consortium of microbial organisms that play vital roles in coral health, growth, and development. The symbiotic relationship between the host and its diverse microbial community is especially important in defending the host against environmental stressors. To study host microbial communities, I apply molecular tools and various multi-omic approaches to better grasp the influence that microbes have on animal health. In addition to my academic work, I am also the co-founder and Chief Science Officer at Cordelia Biosciences, a chemical innovation company. Here, I apply much of my research in marine biotechnology to creating sustainable and eco-friendly products from marine microbes.