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:
Past Projects
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