I am a PhD candidate studying microbial interactions between the diatom species Thalassiosira rotula and bacteria. My research interests include ecological and biological adaptations and responses as a result of climate change and microscale interactions in the marine food web. My other interests include environmental policy and management and art history in science. In addition to working in the Rynearson Lab, I am an Assistant Environmental Analyst for the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program, one of 28 national programs working for collaborative solutions for estuaries designated by Congress as of critical importance. I receive my Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the College of Charleston in May of 2013. My previous research experience includes marine ecosystem dynamics and biological behavioral studies. I have also worked on six state and federal campaigns including Sheldon Whitehouse for United States Senate and Congress Edward Markey for United States Senate. When I am not working, I can be found photographing or drawing or at one of the beaches in Narragansett Bay.