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I am a postdoctoral researcher studying co-design approaches in developing sustainable agricultural practices. As participatory modeler, I also coordinate the development of case studies using concepts of agro-ecosystem living labs, in which researchers and external partners, such as farmers, environmental groups, or policy makers, are equal partners in proposing research foci, deciding on methods, and steering the research process. This work helps accelerate innovation in agriculture and transition towards more sustainable and resilient farming practices in the face of climate change.
Previously, I was a research social scientist with U.S. Department of Agriculture in Ft. Collins, Colorado, and a climate data analyst at Texas A&M University, in interdisciplinary projects that studied the impacts of climate change on grasslands and cattle production in the U.S. Great Plains. During my dissertation, I conducted collaborative, actionable research in the south-central U.S. that helps winter wheat producers prepare for unseasonal climate and strengthens the ability of farmers and ranchers to adapt to climate change. I grew up on a farm in rural eastern Germany. Before moving to the U.S. for my doctoral research in 2012, I earned a graduate degree in geography from Dresden University of Technology (Germany), minoring in meteorology and cartography. During graduate school in Germany I discovered photography and journalism as a way to tell stories. My interest in science communication continued throughout my dissertation along with a desire to bridge academic disciplines in climate research. I co-founded the Early Career Climate Network, a professional organization for early-career climate researchers, wrote regular science blogs, hosted a science podcast, and educated school classes through Skype A Scientist about agriculture and sustainable food production in the face of climate change. |
