I study soil organisms and the various fascinating ways that they interact with their microbiomes, melding organismal biology with modern microbial ecology to understand how diversity contributes to functional outcomes. I use multi-disciplinary approaches, with strength in ‘omics techniques to answer our questions. My lab’s experiments can be found in fields, forests, and greenhouses, in both natural and managed ecosystems with a focus on tropical environments.

My study systems contributes to the overall connectivity of organisms and how they function in a soil environment. The soil is an essential component to sustainability within Hawai`i and the planet. My research into microorganisms and their plant hosts provides essential insights into sustainable agriculture and managements of our local ecosystems.