About me

I’m a well-rounded research scientist primarily interested in two complementary fields: the biodiversity and physiology of fungi, as well as the practical applications of fungi in industrial, pharmaceutical, and therapeutic settings.

I’m happiest as an R&D scientist — I bring a diversity of experience in biotech startups such as Loam Bio (microbial carbon sequestration), Meati Foods (mycelium-based highly nutritious meat alternatives), and Mydecine Innovations Group (psychedelic pharmaceuticals). I’ve worked and consulted many early-stage startups, and I still find the entrepreneurial spirit exhilarating.

I researched the phylogenetics of Cladonia  lichens for my PhD dissertation, working with lichenologists Erin Tripp of University of Colorado (Boulder) and James Lendemer of the New York Botanical Garden.