Environmental engineering · Public health
I study how wastewater can inform public health decisions and support sustainable resource recovery.
My work connects molecular methods for pathogen detection with engineering approaches to wastewater treatment and nutrient management, turning what we discard into information and resources.
I am a postdoctoral researcher in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Rice University, working with Dr. Lauren Stadler in the Stadler Lab. I earned my Ph.D. and M.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Clarkson University with Dr. Shane Rogers, and my B.S. in Biological Science at Ocean University of China.
My doctoral research investigated bioextractive macroalgae aquaculture as an alternative to advanced wastewater treatment. My current work focuses on improving molecular approaches for microbial detection in wastewater.
I am also an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) in Texas and passed the PE Environmental exam in 2026.
One resource, two connected perspectives.
Information → Public health
I develop and validate molecular methods to detect pathogens in wastewater, from assay design and laboratory validation to sequencing-based approaches that help track community disease trends.
Explore this researchResources → Sustainability
I evaluate bioextractive macroalgae aquaculture and wastewater treatment strategies using process modeling, life cycle assessment, and techno-economic analysis to advance sustainable nutrient management.
Explore this researchI enjoy helping students connect what they learn in class with the environmental challenges around them. In university courses and community college workshops, I use process modeling and interactive data tools to make complex ideas easier to explore. I want students to feel comfortable asking questions, trying ideas, and learning from one another. Their feedback helps me keep learning and improving, too.
I have mentored undergraduate researchers, honors students, and participants in NSF REU and RET programs. My community engagement has included COVID-19 surveillance and outreach on anaerobic digestion for small farms.