Updates

July 9, 2025

I have successfully defended my PhD in Physics at the University of Missouri! My research explored how low-mass galaxies form stars in short, intense bursts β€” and what that reveals about galaxy evolution, feedback, and the interstellar medium.

Dissertation defense


April 9, 2025

I had the incredible opportunity to represent the University of Missouri-Columbia at the 2025 American Association for the Advancement of Sciences (AAAS) Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop in Washington, D.C.

During the CASE Workshop, I engaged with science policy and advocacy experts about the role of science in policymaking, learned about the federal budget and appropriations process, and learned about the critical role of researchers in advocating for sustained federal research funding across STEM fields.

As a part of the workshop, I met the legislative staff of Rep. Bob Onder (MO-3), Rep. Mark Alford (MO-4), Sen. Josh Hawley, and Sen. Eric Schmitt on Capitol Hill. During these visits, I shared personal stories and anecdotes on how the recent funding cuts and proposals have impacted the research and employment at Mizzou. I advocated for continued funding support in indirect costs, vital for maintaining the research centers and cores, especially the MU Research Reactor, which produces lifesaving radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment.

On the Capitol Hill


February 27, 2025

I am excited to share that I have been recognized as one of the 18 recipients of the Mizzou 18 Award!

This award honors 18 graduate and professional students chosen for their world-class research, collaboration with faculty and staff, and their demonstrated leadership with undergraduate students.

Mizzou 18 Award


July 12, 2024

I have been selected as an ALMA Ambassador with the North American ALMA Science Center (NAASC), National Radio Astronomy Observatory. I’m looking forward to this opportunity!

You can find more info about the ALMA Ambassadors program here:
πŸ‘‰ https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/alma/ambassadors-program

ALMA Ambassador


June 27, 2024

I am thrilled to share that I have been selected to receive the Remington R. Williams Award from the Board of Curators of the University of Missouri System.

The Remington R. Williams Awards are given in memory of Mr. Williams and his outstanding service as Student Representative to the University of Missouri Board of Curators (2020–2022). This award is the highest non-academic award bestowed on students by the Board and honors recipients who display a positive impact on the university, inspire the growth and development of their fellow students, and exhibit outstanding character and a collaborative spirit.

More info:

Remington R. Williams Awardees


April 24, 2024

I am grateful to have received the Sandra K. Abell Science Education Award and the Mary Elizabeth Gutermuth Award for Community Engagement from the Mizzou Graduate School at the 10th Annual Graduate and Postdoctoral Awards.

  • πŸ§ͺ The Sandra K. Abell Award honors a PhD student in the natural sciences who demonstrates excellence in both research and teaching.
  • 🌍 The Mary Elizabeth Gutermuth Award supports a student committed to community service through engaged scholarship, advancing collaborative, reciprocal partnerships between academia and the public.

Learn more about these awards:
πŸ‘‰ https://gradschool.missouri.edu/graduate-awards-travel-scholarships/

Graduate School Awards


April 19, 2024

I am honored to be recognized and tapped into the Rollins Society Class of 2024 at the 97th Tap Day at the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Rollins Society is one of the six secret honorary societies at Mizzou. During Tap Day, the Society inducts graduate and professional students whose service exemplifies its watchwords: Officium (Duty), Fides (Faithfulness), and Ductus (Leadership).

Rollins solo

Rollins group