I’m a neuroscientist by training who has identified glycan, protein, and gene biomarkers in diseased brain and spinal cord cells. I completed a BSc in Psychology in 2006 at Michigan State University and a PhD in Advanced Medicine at Macquarie University in 2014, my PhD thesis focused on decoding the neurochemistry of the stress response. I then did a post-doctoral Research Fellowship with the ARC Centre of Excellence from 2015-2018 and an ARC DECRA Fellowship from 2018-2022. As an ARC DECRA Fellow, I worked to find new ways of modifying the surface of nanoparticles with exciting fluorescent properties to target diseased brain cells. I'm hoping one day to discover if tiny diamonds will be prized for their fight against brain cancer instead of their beauty and sparkle.

Currently, I lecture and convene Human Biology (BIOL1210; BIOX1210), Biochemistry and Cell Biology (BMOL2201; BMOL6201), and Medical Biotechnology (MOLS8611/7611). I’m passionate about teaching and science education, and my approach centers on fostering a fun, inspiring, and inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel a sense of belonging. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share my enthusiasm for science with over 1,000 students annually and to serve as a role model for women pursuing careers in STEM.