I generally consider myself to be a Molecular Biologist disguised as an Ecologist and Evolutionary Biologist. Therefore, I am interested in the intersection between the two, particularly in what I like to call "Molecular Monitoring". That is the application of molecular tools (genomics, DNA detection, protein detection) on discovering, monitoring, and surveilling the environment around us.
I currently work on two lines of research, but I have many other interests as well:
(1) eDNA!
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is the remote detection of organisms by traces of DNA they leave behind in the environment. I am particularly interested in the "ecology" of eDNA. That is, how DNA molecules move around in the environment. I have been involved with this since my senior thesis during my undergrad work, and it holds a special place in my heart.
(2) Genomics applied to monitoring
I use population genomic data to evaluate the impact of humans into the environment by using evolution as a monitoring tool. Specifically, I look for signatures of natural selection in the genome of organisms to inform us about the unseen impacts of the Anthropocene. While many impacts are obvious (habitat loss), we are changing the selection landscape in ways we do not perceive. This approach allows us to understand those impacts better.
(3) Scientific Naturalism
I truly believe that natural history is fundamental for our accurate interpretation of biological data. Therefore, I try to understand and explore the world, which sometimes results in interesting questions and side projects to work on. Those are great opportunities to develop new skills, and have led to many fruits so far!