 Wellington, New Zealand |
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Before beginning my doctoral degree program at TAMU, I received my BS in Organismal Biology at the University of Kansas. During my time there I participated on research projects in the animal behavior lab, with my work focusing on navigation skills of the house mouse. I also spent a semester studying at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland, which led me back to the South Pacific for my masters program. I completed my Masters in Conservation Biology at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand. The program was divided between VUW and the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. My research focused on the financial, ecological, and social feasibility of predator-fenced sanctuaries on the mainland of New Zealand.
My masters program and research really immersed me in the social aspects of conservation and ecology, which makes the interdisciplinary nature of the ABS program a great fit for me. My current research interests lie in human dimensions of ecosystem management, including the resiliency and sustainability of social-ecological systems. The intended aim of my research is to inform management policy and assist natural resource management agencies in resolving resource use conflicts. When not perusing scientific journals, I enjoy watching Jayhawk basketball and practicing yoga.
