Profile

• Time Zone

  Mountain

  
  
• Organization

  University of Wyoming

  
  
• Role

  Scientist Mentor: I will mentor teams of students online

  
  
• Research Interests (300 words)

  My master's degree research looked at the biogeography and phylogeny on the order Saxifragales.

  
  
• Profile Question 1

  When and why did you decide to go into a science career?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 1 here (300 words):

  I decided to pursue a career in science after I graduated from high school. I knew I wanted to help contribute new knowledge to the world. I loved the idea of discovery and adventure. I have worked in conservation biology, education and plant systematics. Each stage of my career has fulfilled my initial desires as a high school graduate. I still love science.

  
  
• Profile Question 2

  What lessons have you learned in your career about how science works?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 2 here (300 words):

  One of the major lessons I have learned about how science works is that at all points in the scientific process reflection and revision are critical. From the very early stages of identifying questions to the last stages of publication and review, a scientist must maintain an open mind. Humility and team work, through mentors or others are necessities for scientific work.

  
  
• Profile Question 3

  What was the first science experiment you ever designed? How did it turn out?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 3 here (300 words):

  The first science experiment I ever designed was to do an ethnobotanical survey in Tanzania. I was an undergraduate student working with a professor on his conservation experiment but I needed a few more credits to complete my degree. So I designed and completed a survey looking a the medicinal use of plants by the Chagga people in the Arusha area of Tanzania. This didn't actually turn out to be an experiment but it was my first exposure to field work. I made many mistakes. I misidentified plants and didn't communicate well with the guides. This work did not end in publication but it was a great experience and introduction to field work.

  
  
• Capacity: How many teams at a time are you comfortable working with?

  2