Research Interest:
My research utilizes the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica to gain a better understanding of invertebrate immunity. One of the main immune effectors in bivalves are hemocytes. Hemocytes are diverse cells that are able to perform various functions including immune functions such as phagocytosis, production of reactive oxygen species, apoptosis etc. In particular, I am interested in the biology of hemocytes and how the dynamics of environmental factors including exposure to chemical contaminants may impact oyster immunity and disease dynamics. In addition, I am interested in oyster restoration efforts and the impacts of oyster reefs on biodiversity, as well as dynamics that may impact oyster reef restoration success.
My research utilizes the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica to gain a better understanding of invertebrate immunity. One of the main immune effectors in bivalves are hemocytes. Hemocytes are diverse cells that are able to perform various functions including immune functions such as phagocytosis, production of reactive oxygen species, apoptosis etc. In particular, I am interested in the biology of hemocytes and how the dynamics of environmental factors including exposure to chemical contaminants may impact oyster immunity and disease dynamics. In addition, I am interested in oyster restoration efforts and the impacts of oyster reefs on biodiversity, as well as dynamics that may impact oyster reef restoration success.
Courses Taught
Bio 120T/L, Bio 130T, Bio 131LEducation
- B.S., Biology, SUNY Stony Brook, 2006
- M.S., Biology, Northeastern University, 2009
- Ph. D. , School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (Marine Biology), SUNY Stony Brook, 2017