I joined the Ryan Lab in January of 2022 when Amy moved the lab to Iowa from California.  I was born and raised in Iowa.  I spent a few years "traveling" before continuing my formal education at the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.  My educational background is animal ecology with a BSc from Iowa State University.

Most of my research career I have  worked on developmental biology and gene regulatory networks using zebrafish, mouse, and cell culture models.  These studies focused on genetic interactions and tissue differentiation during development for gene pathways including transcription factor activator protein 2 (tfAP2) family members, transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily M, member 7 (trpm7), and interferon regulatory factor 6 (irf6).  

Out of the lab I enjoy spending time with my family, attending my children's activities, cooking, and be outdoors hunting or fishing.

Fun Fact:

I don't understand how to do a basketball lay-up.