I am fascinated by the diversity of life and I cannot think of a better way to study this diversity than by using an evolutionary approach. I am interested in many aspects of vertebrate evolution, but my work mainly focuses on morphological and physiological evolution in reptiles and on vertebrate conservation.

I performed my undergraduate studies and Masters graduate work at the University of Pisa in Italy. I obtained my PhD from the University of Konstanz in Germany. I have worked in many different countries and in many different labs.
As a woman scientist and as an academic mom, I am committed to increase participation of women - including the ones with children - in STEM. As a foreigner who has experienced discrimination because of this, I am committed to promoting and supporting diversity in the working environment.

I received my Bachelors of Art in Biology from The College of Wooster in May 2020, where I primarily studied the genetic structure of a polymorphic garter snake on and around Lake Erie. I also assisted on projects dealing with behavioral changes in mosquitoes after treatment with different natural compounds. I am currently a PhD student at George Mason University. My project focuses on investigating how captivity impacts gene expression in an endangered salmonid species. In my free time, I enjoy nature photography, kayaking, reading the pulpiest sci-fi that used book stores have to offer, and going on absurdly long hikes with friends.