Name
Postdoctoral Fellow in Geography, University of Victoria
PhD in Zoology, University of British Columbia
BSc in Biological Oceanography, University of British Columbia
Contact
Spectral Lab Research:
My postdoctoral research is conducted in collaboration with Hatfield Consultants, the Canadian Space Agency, the ‘Namgis First Nation, and Dr. Maycira Costa (Spectral Lab). This work focuses on developing Eelgrass Explorer, a cloud-based machine learning model that uses high-resolution, multispectral satellite Earth observation data to map eelgrass across intertidal ecosystems in British Columbia.
The project aims to produce spatially and temporally consistent maps to quantify changes in eelgrass extent and condition across environmental gradients. These outputs will support hypothesis-driven research on how multiple stressors influence eelgrass ecosystems. In particular, we will examine how eelgrass, situated at the land–sea interface in the low intertidal zone, responds to the combined effects of marine and atmospheric heatwaves on its distribution, health, and ecosystem function.
Background:
I am incredibly fortunate to have grown up on the West Coast of British Columbia, on the territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
I am a marine ecologist with interests spanning field-based research and large-scale data synthesis. I regularly work with observational and repository-based datasets (e.g., GBIF) and prioritize open science practices throughout the research process.
Prior to joining the Spectral Lab, I was a postdoctoral fellow with the Living Data Project at the Canadian Institute of Ecology and Evolution (CIEE). My PhD research examined how intraspecific variation—including phenotypic plasticity and local adaptation—mediates ecological responses to climate change.
I collaborate broadly across disciplines and value working with researchers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Please get in touch if you want to chat about biodiversity, ecology, or open science!
When I am not at work, I am a busy mom of 3 young kids and 1 overly affectionate golden mountain dog.
Expertise and Experience:
marine ecology, community ecology, open science, teaching, scientific diving
Publications: