I am a developmental biologist with 9+ years’ experience leading projects which investigate how humans develop. I just completed my PhD at the University of Utah studying, in general, the role of retinoic acid signaling in diaphragm development and, specifically, congenital diaphragmatic hernias, a common birth defect. I am now working as a postdoctoral research fellow finishing up some projects, training new students, and applying to new positions. Concurrent to my research, I also enjoy mentoring a diverse group of junior scientists, as well as communicating and presenting my work to both scientific and public audiences.I have a proven track record demonstrating the importance of both outreach and advocacy as both an undergraduate and graduate student. As the president of the Miami Chemical Society, I led various outreach events for elementary school students in the greater Cincinnati area, reaching a wide variety of students. I was also selected to participate in a group of research scientists and political science students to meet with lawmakers in both Washington DC and Columbus, Ohio to discuss research, research funding, and the importance of higher education. At the University of Utah, I have had the privilege to serve as a science fair judge at various events for elementary-undergraduate students, as well as serve as a pen pal for a middle school student to help encourage her excitement for science and school.My thesis work studying retinoic acid, which our bodies make from vitamin A, has sparked an interest in maternal/child health and nutrition. Once I learned how prevalent hunger is in my own community, I felt compelled to act. After reaching out to a local nonprofit that works to alleviate hunger in Utah, I spearheaded a new volunteer position for the 2023 legislative session by gathering data from public databases to determine whether K-12 students were academically disadvantaged when they faced increased incidences of hunger. I presented my findings to the organization leadership, which they were then able to use to advocate at the State Legislature for food subsidy programs.After completing my PhD work in the fall of 2024, I hope to use my problem solving, teamwork, and advocacy skills to tackle tough problems that will make a difference.Outside of the lab, I enjoy all of the outdoor recreation Utah has to offer as well as work to perfect my homemade pasta making to one day become a true sfoglino.