Hello there!
As a physical volcanologist, I am interested in the physics of how volcanic phenomena develop and evolve, especially how they present as hazards to our society and to individuals. Additionally, my training in applied mathematics leads me to investigate new ways of quantifying volcanic phenomena and hazards. Though most of my work has occurred in notebooks, computers, and in the lab, I have greatly enjoyed the field work I have had the opportunity to conduct. I am currently a postdoc at the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory where I am working to develop next-generation lava flow forecasting tools for management planning and situation awareness during volcanic crises. My work in this area includes developing a new fast physics-based lava flow propagation model capable of producing short-term forecasts of lava inundation on operational timescales. I began in the geosciences at Hamilton College in Clinton, NY where I had the privilege of learning from Dr. Barb Tewksbury in her introductory geo course: Geology and Human Events in North Africa and the Middle East, which still shapes my understanding of the intersection of natural processes and society. After my undergraduate work, I spent two years on the move: bike touring through the Northeast, ski instructing in Colorado, and a stint teaching middle and high school level mathematics in Seattle. Living in Seattle convinced me to study volcanology and I returned to New York to pursue a PhD at the University at Buffalo where I studied the mathematics of fluid percolation in volcanic materials under the dual advisement of Dr. Marcus Bursik and Dr. Tracy Gregg. I was previously a postdoc with the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies (CIMSS), a NOAA Cooperative Institute housed within the Space Science and Engineering Center (SSEC) at UW-Madison. My work at UW has focused on developing tools for the detection and characterization of volcanic ash and gases as well as thermal activity in support of volcano monitoring and aviation safety. As a member of the UW-Madison Postdoctoral Association Diversity and Inclusion Committee, I am committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across the university landscape. My interest and studies in the intersection of natural processes and society reminds me every day of the urgent need for social, racial, and environmental justice. My studies as well as participation in international conferences and workshops have taught me that in the STEM community, diversity is our greatest asset, leading to more rigorous science, more durable and accountable institutions, and a more open and inclusive society. |