I recently (February 2013) completed my master's in entomology at the University of Delaware, where I worked on planthopper systematics with Dr. Charles Bartlett. Specifically, I revised the neotropical genus Caenodelphax Fennah and a segregate of the polyphyletic genus Delphacodes Fieber. Select courses I completed at UD include Insect Taxonomy, Insect Structure and Function, Field Taxonomy, Medical Entomology, Ecology, and Evolutionary Genetics.  Before that, I studied animal behavior and environmental science at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, graduating in January 2009. 

Independently from my graduate studies, I have pursued a strong interest in medical entomology & acarology. Last summer, I completed the world’s premiere medical acarology workshop under the tutelage of renowned acarologists at the Ohio State University. This workshop included a taxonomy-based laboratory component, a lecture series, and a field course with emphasis on collection techniques. I completed a Medical, Veterinary, and Forensic Entomology course at the University of Delaware, taught by Dr. Jackson Gingrich, and subsequently served as the teaching assistant and research aide for the course. 

In addition to my academic and research interests, I harbor a strong passion for public outreach and science education. I served as the chair of the UD Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology outreach club, leading entomology-focused programs for diverse audiences at more than 30 local institutions, including schools, camps, juvenile detention centers, scout troops, and nursing homes. I gained additional teaching experience through internships at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, and the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. 

I am eager to pursue a career in entomology or acarology, and would enjoy corresponding with you about availabile research positions. Thank you for your time and consideration.