My program harmonizes Weed Science, Invasion Ecology, and Limnology to solve problems related to Aquatic Plant Management. My thesis research centers on the invasive aquatic weed Cuban bulrush (Cyperus blepharoleptos) and asks three questions: What do aquatic managers currently know/do about this weed? How can we improve control strategies for this weed? What are the ecological impacts of this weed?

In Fall '21 and Spring '22 I worked for the Professor of Plant Ecophysiology, Dr. Nishanth Tharayil. The work consisted of preparing samples for LC-MS analysis, helping graduate students in their experiments, and assisting the professor in the wet lab for PES 8090 Analytical Techniques. In Fall '22, Spring '23, and Fall '23 I worked for the Professor of Crop Ecophysiology, Dr. Sruthi Narayanan. This work consisted of data collection for field trials and assisting graduate students with greenhouse and lab experiments. From my work in both labs, I gained a comprehensive perspective on plant physiology, ranging from understanding the fundamental mechanisms at play to applying that knowledge to develop practical solutions for agricultural challenges. I had the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research using various experimental techniques and approaches while contributing to the broader goal of improving crop productivity and sustainability.

I worked for the Professor of Weed Ecology Dr. Anita Dille. My project was to examine the weed-suppressing effects of cover crops in Kansas agroecosystems.