I’m currently an associate research scientist at Columbia University’s Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. Both in the lab, and beyond, I am passionate about animal behavior, and the choreography of movement. My scientific approach often begins with simple, patient observation, or “watching and wondering” in the words of Nikolaas Tinbergen, an inspiration of mine and a founder of modern ethology.

My current research focuses on elucidating the neural basis of two distinct repertoires of behavior, both critical for survival – egg-laying behavior and the defense against predators – using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as my model system. In my most recently completed work, published in June in Nature Neuroscience, I addressed a fundamental question: how does the nervous system stitch together elemental units of behavior into purposeful sequences? This is truly an exciting time to be a Drosophila neurobiologist, where one’s curiosity about brain function can be realized across multiple levels of analysis, from individual genes and molecules, to cells and neural circuits, to the behavior of the individual and of socially-interacting groups. Like many others in the field, I was drawn to neuroscience by the prospect of deep introspection, to catch a glimpse of what it is to be human. Working with the tiny fruit fly, however, has been a truly humbling experience, opening my eyes to the wondrous complexity that exists in all of earth’s creatures, big and small.

Throughout my journey, I have had the fortune of working with many great mentors and collaborators. Though some physicists may disagree, science is not performed in a vacuum; it’s a deeply communal endeavor. I am also grateful for the many mentees who have joined forces with me over the years, for their enthusiasm and dedication, and for continually pushing me to see the world through new eyes.

As I look to the future, I am excited about the opportunity to lead a diverse research team that pushes the boundaries of our understanding of neural mechanisms in shaping naturalistic behavior, and to mentor the next generation of scientists in developing their own “watching and wondering” gaze. I am eager to contribute to a vibrant academic community where collaborative spirit and scientific curiosity thrive.

Outside the lab, my passion for animal behavior and movement manifests on the playing fields, where I enjoy beach volleyball, tennis, ping-pong, and aerobie (the furthest thrown object by a human being), as well as in a small zoo in the corner of my apartment where you will find a variety of jumping spiders and ants, the collection co-curated by my cat.