I am a third year PhD student in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Riverside (Advisor: Dr. Eddie Schwieterman). I work on exoplanet habitability and biosignatures using photochemical, spectral, and instrumental models to better understand (exo)planetary conditions and potential detectability. I have a focus on vertically integrated modeling and an interest in using laboratory and field studies to enhance modeling work. 

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 doing outreach projects. I am involved in developing a planetary science activity for my departmental outreach program, and have given public talks and outreach events. I serve as the Programming Lead for the Women+ of Color Project, and currently represent graduate students on the departmental DEI committee. 

I plan to pursue a career as a faculty member and am eager pursuing teaching and mentoring opportunities. I was the instructor of record for GEO 013 during Summer 2022, including piloting a flipped classroom and developing new activities and grading metrics. 

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

CV

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NASA ADS