Emily is conducting Fulbright research in Nusa Penida in collaboration with Indo Ocean Foundation. Her research examines how sediment and nutrient runoff from land influences marine macroinvertebrate communities in seagrass and coral rubble habitats. By combining ecological field surveys with community engagement and citizen science, her project aims to better understand connections between land and sea and support conservation strategies for vulnerable coastal ecosystems.

Emily is passionate about aquatic ecology and the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. She enjoys exploring ecosystems, engaging with communities, and learning how nature and culture intertwine to inform conservation efforts. Her experience in Indonesia gives her an opportunity to deepen this work while connecting with local communities.

She holds a master’s degree in biology from Southeast Missouri State University and a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, and agriculture from the University of Tennessee at Martin.