Hello! My name is Mike. I am a new PhD student in Dr. Amy Trowbridge’s lab starting Fall 2020. I earned my BS in Environmental Studies and Biology from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and my MS in Biological Sciences from Wright State University where my research focused on emerald ash borer host tree defenses. I have research experience in plant systematics, conservation, plant-insect interactions, and community ecology. Currently, my research interests include how environmental changes mediate tree defenses against herbivores and fungal pathogens and how trees actively direct and partition carbon resources under stress. In my spare time I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and learning how to roller blade. Other interests include cooking, photography, gardening, live music, and studying architecture.