I grew up in Grand Forks, ND and then moved to Philadelphia, PA to complete my bachelor's degree at the University of Pennsylvania, where I double majored in Molecular & Cell Biology and Classical Studies. During that time, I worked in Michael Lampson’s lab studying epigenetic inheritance and evolution of centromere proteins. Studying the paradox of conserved centromere function and rapid evolution of centromere DNA and proteins left me fascinated with the idea that ancient processes like reproduction and development can be shaped by constant change. As a graduate student at Cornell, I’m now co-advised by Cedric Feschotte and Andy Clark. My current research combines developmental genetics and evolutionary genomics to test the role of transposable elements in Drosophila development and learn more broadly about the dynamics of conflict and cooperation between transposons and their host genome. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going for walks, playing the trumpet, and baking.