Duke University, Ph.D. 

Shippensburg University, B.S. 

My scientific career began at Shippensburg University where I obtained a Bachelors of Science in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry.  During my undergraduate research experiences, I developed a personal interest in translational research, which guided me to my thesis work in the Brennan Laboratory.  I leveraged structure elucidation and biochemical techniques to characterize transcriptional regulators in pathogenic bacteria, specifically in the characterization of PrfA, the transcriptional regulator of virulence in Listeria monocytogenes which is responsible for significant food-borne pathogenesis.  The research page contains more information on this project.    

 

I similarly use this translational research philosophy in my teaching where I encourage the application of knowledge and critical thinking. If you are more interested in my teaching ideas, you may find it beneficial to peruse my sample biochemistry class syllabus, lab syllabus, and example exam problems. Please also visit my CV for the specifics of my research and teaching experiences and educational background.