My research focuses on environmental, industrial, and molecular microbiology, with a strong emphasis on applied systems. Specifically, I utilize microbial genomics, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics to investigate microbial processes in various environmental settings. I’ve explored microbial adaptations to hypersaline wastewater and high-CO₂ environments—both natural and artificial—and have used Oxford Nanopore sequencing to recover high-quality draft genomes from low-biomass samples. My work has included diverse microbial lineages such as Halanaerobium, Acetobacterium, Methanosphaerula, and Methanosarcina.
Recently, we launched a project examining the microbiomes of natural and artificial sports fields using modern DNA sequencing. By sampling surfaces on Thomas Jefferson University’s East Falls campus and across Philadelphia, we aim to better understand microbial dynamics related to turf sustainability, potential pathogen presence, and athlete safety, including risks like skin infections from turf contact.
I have published various scientific articles in journals, such as Applied and Environmental Microbiology (AEM), Environmental Science & Technology (ES&T), PNAS Nexus, FEMS Microbiology, and Frontiers in Microbiology.
On the pedagogic side, I am passionate about inspiring students to appreciate biological processes and understanding their critical role in sustaining life. I emphasize active learning, engaging students in the material, and breaking down complex concepts into simpler, more manageable components that are easier to grasp. I want to bring modern molecular methodologies into classroom settings and provide students real, hands-on experiences in areas such as microbial genomics, DNA sequencing and bioinformatics.