Stephanie is broadly interested in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and global change ecology.  Her PhD research examines the interactions between microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, and environmental change including climate change and soil acidification. These dynamics may alter carbon storage and the ability of forests to store and purify water by taking up and retaining nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous. She hopes this research increases understanding of how ecosystems are responding to global change, and helps environmental planners anticipate possible implications for soil fertility, water quality, and human health.  She is originally from Pittsford, NY, and completed her BS in Natural Resources at Cornell University in 2004. Before joining Carol Adair's Lab at UVM, she worked as a research technician in Alaska, Venezuela and New England, and volunteered with natural resource conservation projects in Venezuela and Bolivia.