I am very interested in environmental chemistry with a particular focus on how human activities introduce molecules into the environment and the effect those molecules have on the soil, water, air, plants, and/or animals. While at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, I investigated the fate of pesticides after application to turf grass. During my time at Worcester State, I have assisted students with the development of laboratory techniques to determine the levels of many personal care products and metals present in the sediment and water of the Blackstone River. Additionally, I have been collaborating with Dr. Grennan in the biology department to study Partridgeberry, a native forest plant. With this project, the chemistry team has identified and measured the volatile organic carbon (VOCs) released during the plant’s flowering cycle. The linkage between VOCs, pollen count, and ovary fertilization is being investigated.
