What is your academic history? I started with a bachelor degree in liberal arts, went back for a math education bachelors (both from Purdue University), taught highschool math in inner city schools (Chicago, IL & Gary, IN) for about 5 years before deciding to pursue science full time. I earned a masters in mathematics here at Montana State and should be ABD by May 2018.

What is your research focus? I work on the systems side of systems biology, applying dynamical systems ideas to biokinetic models. We're trying to interpret an unusual biphasic DNA circuit behavior observed by biochemical engineer Dr. Stephanie McCalla's lab here at Montana State.

What is/are your future career aspiration(s)? I'd like to work in a national lab or try to find a good fit for my interests in private industry. As an applied mathematician, I want to surround myself with non-mathematicians working on interesting problems to which I can bring different perspectives.

Why did you choose MSU for grad school? When I visited the campus, I could tell immediately that the professors were extremely supportive and friendly. I needed to be in an environment that would support me while pushing me and felt this team would do both.

What is one non-academic interest/hobby that you have/do? I like to quilt and vegetarian-ize traditional family recipes.