Mentorship, Diversity & Science Communication

Research Assistants & Mentorship

Annabelle Louderback-Valenzuela

Ben Banet

Jeff Andrews

Mia Guarnieri

Rachel Alsheikh

Parisa Farman

Tricia Nguyen

Vivian Lei

Mia Macneill

Pao Perez

Rich Codington

Jamie Bourdon

 I am very fortunate to have worked with such an amazing team of research assistants! To facilitate their journey as early-career scientists, I provide training in species ID, fieldwork, statistics, data analysis and visualization using R, and experimental design. Many of these students developed and led their own research projects, which we showcased at the University of California, Davis Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities Conference. See CV for a full list of projects and their titles.

Diversity

My philosophy on diversity is centered around the notion that everyone, no matter gender, race, sexual orientation, geography, age or background, should be able to receive a higher education and pursue a scientific career in a welcoming, respectful environment. That scientific innovation and conservation solutions stem from a diverse team of individuals and a positive, inclusive working environment. I promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) in the field of conservation through the following actions:
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• Be approachable and create safe spaces for mentees and scientists to be heard (e.g. practice active listening; hold office hours)
• Amplify the voices of underrepresented scientists (e.g. twitter; invite guest speakers at conferences I organize)
• Promote awareness of DEIJ (e.g. create diversity breakout sessions at student conferences; offer career advice to mentees)
• ​Partner with diverse stakeholders and be respectful of their cultures and values

In recognition of my efforts mentoring students and promoting diversity, I was presented with the Helene M. Overly Memorial Graduate Scholarship from the Advancing Women in Transportation organisation, Sacramento 2019

Science Communication & Outreach

As Vice President of the Society for Conservation Biology, Davis Chapter, I coordinated many Science Communication events that offered a variety of venues for scientists to discuss their work:

• Bay Area Conservation Biology Symposium
• Annual fundraisers
• Quarterly chapter meetings
• Quarterly officer meetings
• Museum visits
• Guest lectures
• Panel discussions
• Environmental movie screenings

I communicate my research through professional conferences, guest lectures, outreach/educational events and media interviews.