About me

I was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas where I grew up catching prairie lizards and making mud pies. I eventually turning my curiosity about nature into a career in science⁠—first as a chemist, then storyteller.

I’ve always wanted to know what the world was made of. It’s a philosophical question with a surprisingly pragmatic answer: molecules. In my time at the bench, I studied a breadth of molecular systems such as marine natural products, polymers, organic synthesis, and chemical biology. The only thing I loved more than learning about chemistry was sharing that love with others. So I decided to pursue a career that would let me do just that.

Now as a science journalist, I see my job as one of service to readers. I want to report stories that are useful to my audience (and inspiring when possible). I primarily cover news about the physical sciences—namely chemistry and materials science—and the natural world. You can find my work in print, online, and on the air.

When not at my desk, I’m generally out exploring the Natural State or spoiling my cats. I also enjoy volunteering in my community as an Arkansas Master Naturalist, an eBird Reviewer for Central Arkansas, and an elected board member of the National Association of Science Writers.