What brought you to Stowers?

As a Missouri native, I was familiar with the Stowers Institute’s reputation for scientific excellence and intellectual freedom. I knew that was the type of environment in which I wanted to work.

Why are you interested in your field of research?

As a molecular biologist, I study the interactions of molecules, such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, within cells and how those interactions regulate a cell’s behavior. Over my career, I have applied molecular techniques to answer questions in developmental biology, neuroscience, and cancer. This diversity of biological questions, in addition to the constant development of innovative techniques, ensures that I am always learning new things.

What inspires you to keep working in your field?

Making novel discoveries that improve our understanding of health and disease is always the goal. To make those discoveries, I must design and conduct experiments that best answer each biological question.

What have you found most rewarding about your work?

Contributing high-quality results to the body of scientific knowledge is very gratifying. I also enjoy the more personal aspects of working in science: helping students develop and building friendships through fruitful collaborations.

What impact do you hope your research will have?

I hope my work has a positive impact on human health through providing an expanded knowledge of the underlying biology.