Service

My service focuses on strengthening academic communities, supporting early-career researchers, and expanding access to science and higher education.

Academic community

I have contributed to departmental and university service through graduate representation, invited speaker selection, work on recruitment and retention, and building a more inclusive academic climate. These roles have included representing doctoral students in faculty meetings at UC Irvine and serving on UCLA’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology’s Committee for Anti-Racism and Equity. A recurring focus of this work has been improving the structures that shape who enters, participates in, and succeeds in academic science.

Early-career researchers

I am especially interested in supporting researchers during the transition from training to independent careers.

Through the National Postdoctoral Association, I have served on the Postdoc Council and Diversity Task Force and am the former chair of the Engagement Committee. My work there has focused on connecting postdoctoral researchers with professional resources, strengthening engagement across the postdoctoral community, and helping researchers navigate career development and professional transitions.

I have also contributed to broader discussions about the scientific workforce through the Science & Technology Action Committee’s Task Force on a Vision for American Science & Technology.

Community engagement

My community engagement centers on climate education and pathways into STEM.

I have organized climate-change workshops, ecological restoration activities, and educational programs for high school and college students, as well as programs connecting students with scholarships, financial aid, and academic resources. Community colleges are particularly important to me because my own academic journey began at one. I have therefore returned to my alma mater, West Los Angeles College, and other community colleges to speak about climate science, STEM careers, higher education, and the role these institutions play in developing the next generation of scientists.

Scientific service

I contribute to the broader scientific community through peer review, conference and professional activities, and service to organizations working across climate science, energy, Earth system science, and researcher development. My service is guided by a simple principle: academic institutions work best when they create more pathways for people to contribute, develop, and succeed.