On the effect she hopes to have on students and CSUN...

I would like to be known for making foundational contributions to our understanding of protein structure and function, especially in the field of protein folding, and for demonstrating the kind of sophisticated research that is possible at a university like CSUN. For students, I hope to leave a legacy of helping them discover how talented they are and setting them on successful career trajectories.

On the most exciting trends in her field, and why we should care...

One exciting trend is our increasing understanding of the role of unfolded/disordered proteins in biological function. These previously ignored proteins play very important roles in signal transmission and regulation, and have also been linked to major diseases.

"I am a scientist above all else, and scientists are always driven to figure out how stuff works, or how to make it work. It’s challenging and fun."

On what drives or compels her to keep pushing the boundaries...

I am a scientist above all else, and scientists are always driven to figure out how stuff works, or how to make it work. It’s challenging and fun.

On what it means to be at CSUN...

It provides me an opportunity to teach and mentor students, in classroom as well as research settings. I also get to work on research that I choose, in a collegial environment.