• What is your degree program and expected graduation date? PhD in Biostatistics, May 2019

• Please describe your research: I develop statistical models to study the dynamics of a neglected tropical disease called visceral leishmaniasis.

• In simple terms, why does this research matter? Visceral leishmaniasis places hundreds of millions of the world’s poorest people at risk, but it is still not sufficiently understood. Statistical models are a powerful tool to learn more about the infection process and test potential prevention and control measures through simulation before implementing them in communities.

• How soon after starting at the University of Iowa were you able to participate in research? I began research after one semester.

• How has being involved in research made you more successful at the University of Iowa? My research is inherently multidisciplinary, so it has strengthened my communication and collaboration skills, which are essential to being an effective applied statistician.

• What are your career goals and/or plans after graduation? I plan to collaborate with health researchers to develop statistical models to inform health policy.

• Faculty mentor/advisor: Jacob Oleson and Grant Brown

• Hometown: West Haven, Connecticut

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