I am working in the field of ecology and environmental science.Specifically, I study plant-microbial interactions, plant adaptations to harsh environmental conditions, and soil composition to better understand ecosystems under stress including metal contaminated sites/legacy mine sites. My research centers on plants with unique abilities relating to metal in their environment, including metal exclusion or hyperaccumulation. These plants have the potential to limit the movement of toxic metals through ecosystems and convert them into a state that is accessible for industrial and commercial use.