I have a broad research background in applied and environmental microbiology, with research projects spanning human, terrestrial, and anthropogenic environments. Since joining Michigan State University in 2006, I have led seminal studies to describe the electric nature of metal-reducing microbes, their role in biomineralization, and biotechnological applications. Projects in the lab also focus on human-associated microbiomes, microbiomes influencing agrochemical mobility, and microbial-based materials for building applications in the climate economy. I was elected to fellowship in the American Academy of Microbiology in 2019 and serve since 2021 as Editor in Chief of Applied and Environmental Microbiology. I am also the recipient of the 2022 ASM Alice C. Evans Award for my contributions to the full participation and advancement of women in the microbial sciences.