About Me

Current Research Focus

I am a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the lab of Dr. Amandine Gamble in the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health and a Postdoctoral Affiliate in the Cornell K. Lisa Yang Center for Wildlife Health. I am part of highly collaborative projects aimed at understanding connections among foraging ecology, population structure, pathogen spread, and interactions with non-native mammals impact seabird survival and conservation efforts. I bring my experience in stable isotope ecology to assess the trophic relationships between native avian predators (e.g. Striated Caracaras and Brown Skuas), seabirds, and introduced mammals (e.g. rodents, cats, livestock) in the Falkland Islands/Islas Malvinas. I am also continuing my work with the Tawaki Project in New Zealand on crested penguin ecology, population dynamics, and movements, particularly on the declining Eastern Rockhopper Penguin.

Broadly, my research interests revolve around foraging ecology and movement patterns of seabirds and their roles in larger ecosystem functions. Seabird responses to anthropogenic factors, such as the introduction or removal of mammals, interactions with fisheries, land and marine development, and climate change are of particular interest. 

My Background

I grew up roaming the forest of my family's farm in north Mississippi where I developed a passion for birds. Like many animal lovers, I embarked on a career in veterinary medicine by studying Animal Science at Mississippi State University and working as a veterinary assistant. Little did I know that the next decade would take me on a very different path. After two years at MSU, I transferred to Middle Tennessee State University, switched to Biology, and became involved in undergraduate research on aquatic invasive species. 

After graduation, I volunteered with Aves Argentinas and Proyecto Macá Tobiano to assist with monitoring and conservation efforts to protect the critically endangered Hooded Grebe. During this time in Argentina I encountered my first wild penguins - I was now irreparably hooked on penguins.

I began my Master's in the Mays Lab at Marshall University and pitched the idea of a thesis on stable isotope ecology in Fiordland Penguins/Tawaki. With the help of a supportive advisor and bit of luck, I found the Tawaki Project and embarked on my first field season in New Zealand. Penguins and stable isotope ecology remained central to my research in the McCracken Lab at the University of Miami, but I have also expanded into population genetics and diving physiology in other seabird taxa. 

From birdwatching on our Mississippi farm, to tracking endangered penguins on Subantarctic islands, the last decade has brought me far from my original plan of veterinary medicine - and I wouldn't have it any other way! Although I am now focused on seabird biology, I still credit the 10+ years of working in emergency veterinary medicine with providing many of the skills that are critical to both my lab and field work. 

Check out my current and past research here or head over to my CV.  If you find my research, photos, or field stories compelling, are a student interested in seabird science, or want to collaborate, please reach out on any of the social media accounts or e-mail below.