I am a graduate student at Rice University pursuing a PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. I am interested in how gene flow, and hybridization especially, might contribute to adaptive evolution. I also have a Master's Degree in Population and Conservation Biology from Texas State University, and for my thesis research I investigated how gene flow could be inhibited via ecological interactions, and potentially contribute to the process of speciation. In addition to my science, I am a new mom and so excited to be a part of the adventure that is parenthood! I also enjoy the visual arts, and in my (very limited) free time I enjoy painting and drawing the human figure.