What are your primary research and scholarly interests?
My current research focuses on elucidating the microbiomes of pollin ators, tracking population dynamics of mosquitoes, and collecting microclimate data on Spirit Lake Nation. I do pedagogy research in all the courses that I teach and am involved in NATURE Activities.
How does this tie into the work you are doing with ND-ACES?
Right now, my focus is on the NATURE activities associated with ND-ACES.
Where are you from and where did you pursue your education?
I grew up in Fargo-Moorhead area where I obtained bachelor's degrees in biology and chemistry from Minnesota State University of Moorhead. I received my Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of North Dakota.
What excites you about ND EPSCoR?
It's interesting to see the intersection of 3 different but interconnected research tracks and how different skill sets can work together to conduct great research.
What motivates you?
I want to help the students who attend CCCC obtain a high-quality college experience/education that includes the opportunity to conduct research in an area of interest and importance to them. My hope is that one day former students will come back to CCCC to help expand the research that is conducted here.
If you could time travel, where would you go?
Just back in time long enough to get the right lotto numbers, no need to risk disrupting the time stream too much.
If you could have coffee / tea with anyone, who would it be?
Noam Chomsky
What was your first job?
My first job was working for Interstate Battery.
What does your very best day include?
A long hike/dog walk followed up with trying out a new restaurant.
What's your favorite quote?
"It always seems impossible until it's done." Nelson Mandela