My research characterizes the lipid and isotope biosignatures produced by microbes in extreme environments to inform life-detection strategies beyond Earth. I focus on the geomicrobiology and biogeochemistry of planetary analog environments, including hydrothermal systems, hyperarid deserts, polar regions, and the deep sea. I integrate approaches from stable-isotope geochemistry, organic geochemistry, and molecular biology/ bioinformatics. Together, this work links cell-level metabolism to geochemical signals that can be used to reconstruct past environments on Earth and to guide the search for life on Mars and ocean worlds.
I am equally committed to teaching and mentorship, and I aim to involve undergraduates directly in research through field-based and laboratory-based projects that emphasize quantitative skills, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary problem solving. I prioritize inclusive mentoring practices and scaffolded research experiences that support students from diverse backgrounds in developing scientific confidence and independence. Because much of my work takes place in remote and extreme environments, I place strong emphasis on field safety, risk assessment, and team-based decision making, and I integrate formal safety training and best practices into all field courses and research expeditions.