I am Ph.D. Biological Scientist (candidate) with focuses in Comparative Endocrinology/Biochemistry/Physiology, Molecular biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, Invertebrate Zoology, and Evolution. I am currently researching the role of methyl farnesoate (MF) in crustacean ecdysteroidogenesis and molting which allows for growth, development, and/or regeneration. I identified and characterized the synthetic, signaling, and metabolic pathway components of the MF–Methoprene tolerant–Krüppel homolog 1– E93 (MF–MEKRE93) transcriptional cascade. Particularly, I am investigating how this transcriptional network regulates the molting gland and its transition throughout the molt cycle. Additionally, I am looking into how these components evolved for insect development and metamorphosis. From these experiences I acquired molecular skills (including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), PCR, and competitive enzyme linked immunoassays (ELISAs), completed bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses, analyzed RNA-seq data, conducted in vitro organ cultures, and synthesized dsRNA constructs for in vivo knockdown.Additionally, I worked and collaborated on other projects around the lab includingidentifying and characterizing the leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupledreceptor 3 (Lgr3), Wnt signaling and Wnt-cofactor orthologs, ecdysone response genetranscription factors, receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and putative candidates for themolt inhibiting hormone neuropeptide receptor. Additional research projects I have collaborated on includes investigating solitary bee development by examining how starvation impacts the metamorphic transition with the USDA and North Dakota State University, minimizes stereotypical behaviors in captive snakes, and synthesizing biomimetic material for breast cell cultures. Additionally, I organize and helped start a business outside of academia while developing lab experiences for undergraduates within academia. Previously, I optimized, promoted, and managed sales as retail manager while as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) administered care and assisted residents with activities of daily living.