About me: As an evolutionary biologist, I am interested in exploring extreme mammalian adaptations for insights into organismal features that might become informative targets for repairing and protecting human health. I am currently performing research at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research as a Hanna Gray fellow. I am supported by the HHMI, BWF, and NSF.

Research Interests: I received my PhD in Harvard's Organismic and Evolutionary Biology Program in the lab of Dr. Arhat Abzhanov and Dr. Clifford Tabin.  My long-term aim is to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms implicated in the adaptations of extraordinary mammals- bats. My current research is focused on nectar bat physiology and cellular metabolism. Understanding bats can help us advance metabolic resilience against hyperglycemia, a condition associated with diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disease for which there is no cure.

Higher Education Advocacy: I was born and raised in East Salinas, California. As a first-generation Chicana and Indigenous scholar from an underserved (low-income) community, I am aware of many obstacles students from underrepresented groups face in the sciences. I help through teaching and mentoring, which I enjoy. Mentors make all the difference in DEIB. I aim to serve as a role model and mentor to students from diverse backgrounds in their pursuit of higher education.