I always found the natural world fascinating. Understanding biology and the origins and manifestations of life is, to me, the most inspiring and spiritual endeavor (in the Spinoza, Darwin & Einstein sense).

So, unsurprisingly, I studied biology (specifically "Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering") for my bachelor's, and my first "real" job was as a research technician at the Center for Integrative Genomics (The Gibson Lab) at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

The Comeback

For many reasons, I ended up doing my master's and PhD in fields a bit too far away from the natural world and basic science. But now, as I finally have the capacity and resources to actually pursue this passion, I started doing a second master's degree (as a postdoc!) in "Ecology, Evolution, and Nature Conservation" at the University of Potsdam. One of my best decisions ever!

I would particularly like to combine this knowledge with my social/psychology research, find new ways to protect the natural world through a combination of science, education, and art, and potentially start or join an ecologically sustainable startup in the bioeconomy.

Oh and did I mention that I am avid hiker and scuba diver? I love being outdoors in nature and learning about new species as I encounter them. I particularly adore being in or near water, and I cannot wait to start my divemaster training!