I am a fifth year PhD candidate (expected graduation: June 2025) in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Riverside (Advisor: Dr. Eddie Schwieterman). My dissertation research focuses on analyzing exoplanet habitability and biosignatures using photochemical, spectral, and instrumental models. In particular, I have a focus on vertically integrated modeling and an interest in using laboratory and field studies to enhance modeling work, including preliminary experience conduct biological flux data in the field. 

I plan to pursue a career as a faculty member and am eagerly opportunities to further develop my practice as a teacher and mentor.  I was the instructor of record for GEO 013 during Summer 2022 and 2024, including piloting a flipped classroom and developing new activities and grading metrics. I have completed the University Teaching Certificate at UCR, a competitive pedagogical development program for graduate students. 

Current Projects: 

• Novel Methylated Biosignatures
• Biosignature Interactions 
• Collaborations with members of the VPL, CHAMPS, and Alternative Earths NASA ICAR teams. 

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Past Projects 

• Photochemistry of Circumbinary Planets
• ​High Resolution Spectral Discriminants of Ocean Loss for M Dwarf Terrestrial Planets 

Additional Professional Interests: 
I am highly interested in advancing DEI efforts through improving recruitment and retention of underserved communities in higher education as well as community outreach projects. I have developed a planetary science/astrobiology activity for my departmental outreach program, and have given public talks and outreach events reaching 100+ people per year. I have represented graduate students on the departmental DEI committee and organized a workshop series on relevant topics . 

Email: michaela.leung (at) email.ucr.edu

CV

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NASA ADS