// The Read Group \\

W-246B Millennium Science Complex
University Park, PA 16802

DEGREES:

University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2003-2008).
BS Mathematical Biology, minor International Studies,

Pennsylvania State University (2008-present).
PhD, Biology program,

I am interested in the dynamics of vector borne diseases, particularly the influence that vector populations have on transmission of disease. My research focuses on the mosquito populations that vector malaria parasites and their response to temperature, which is a complex and highly important driver of mosquito populations. Environmental conditions affect the ability of vectors to transmit pathogens successfully, so understanding the effects of the environment on vectors is essential to understanding the dynamics of disease transmission both now and in the future. To that end, I am developing a theoretical approach to explore the influence of temperature dependencies and juvenile stage dynamics on adult population structure and malaria transmission potential. Important questions include the following:

• How does temperature affect mosquito populations and the transmission potential for malaria?


• Can we gain a better understanding of malaria dynamics by using a model that incorporates both temperature dependencies and juvenile mosquito stage dynamics?


• How will climate change affect mosquito populations and malaria transmission?

Interests

Dancing, ballet in particular, traveling, reading, and hiking