Overview
My research focuses on the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms contributing to antifungal drug resistance and virulence in the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. I am involved in projects exploring the distribution and regulation of transposable elements and their contributions to drug resistance and hypermutation in this important fungal pathogen. I received my undergraduate degrees in biology and chemistry (2020) and master’s in biology (2023) from Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, NC.
Recent Publications
Distinct evolutionary trajectories following loss of RNA interference in Cryptococcus neoformans.
Journal Article Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · November 19, 2024 While increased mutation rates typically have negative consequences in multicellular organisms, hypermutation can be advantageous for microbes adapting to the environment. Previously, we identified two hypermutator Cryptococcus neoformans clinical isolates ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Impact of RNAi and unisexual reproduction on Cryptococcus evolution, drug resistance, and pathogenesis
ResearchGraduate Student · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 1997 - 2026View All Grants