ABOUT ME

I am an ecologist, communicator and NatGeo Explorer. My goal is to improve basic understanding of tropical tree community dynamics in an equitable and just manner. I have been working consistently to bridge gaps between science and society, both through academic research on forest dynamics, mentorship and by working to strengthen human-nature connections through creative communication.

Currently, I am a Smithsonian Institution Postdoctoral Fellow at the ForestGEO Ecosystems and Climate Lab advised by Kristina Anderson-Teixeira and Sean McMahon.
Previously, I completed my PhD, advised by Shahid Naeem at the Department of Ecology Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University.

Google scholar

Research

I combine diverse scientific inquiry techniques to answer basic questions about tropical tree communities and forest dynamics under global change. I am interested in questions about tree communities change in a changing environment.

Education

I try to focus on equity, inclusivity and reflexivity with nature and environmental education. When I can, I work with local communities and students who don't typically have access to training in ecological research.

communication

I enjoy communicating about the natural world and ecological processes with curiosity and creativity. Individually and in collaboration with other communicators, I work on diverse projects in English and regional Indian languages.