What is the broad focus of your research?

My research examines the impact of community-level environmental exposures on the pace of epigenetic aging, which is a measure of how our bodies are aging biologically that has been shown to be a useful biomarker for disease risk. I am particularly interested in the effects of ambient heat on women's cardiovascular health.

Where did you receive your training and degrees?

My initial training was at the associate's degree level in Clinical Laboratory Science. I earned my B.S. in Anthropology/Sociology from Eastern Oregon University. Later, I pursued degrees in nursing, earning an ADN from Jefferson State Community College and BSN and Ph.D. from the UAB School of Nursing.

What is the most exciting project you are currently working on?

Preeclampsia rates demonstrate seasonal variation, with some studies showing warmer temperatures posing a greater risk. Additionally, advanced maternal age (both chronological and epigenetic) has been linked to increased risk of preeclampsia. I will soon begin work on a study to examine the impact of exposure to high heat days on preeclampsia and epigenetic aging among pregnant women with chronic hypertension.

What is the coolest training or program you've been a part of, or your favorite conference you've attended?

I was part of the 2023 cohort of the NIH/NIEHS funded Environmental Health Research Institute for Nurse and Clinician Scientists. This year-long program provides training and mentorship to enhance the integration of environmental health methods into nurse scientists' research, policy, education and practice.

What kind of research would you like to be doing that you haven’t yet had the opportunity to do?

I would eventually like to use cumulative impact analysis methods to gain a better understanding of the cumulative effects of environmental stressors on epigenetic aging and the cardiovascular health of women living in high environmental burden communities.

If you weren’t in academia, what would your career be?

Animal-assisted therapist.