My Work
Current Research
Much of my research uses DNA sequencing to identify microbes. We are currently wrapping up a project with the USDA where we compared Illumina MiSeq to the newer Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION, which is cheaper and can sequence longer reads. We found that the output of the MinION is comparable to the MiSeq, so we have decided to analyze our communities with the newer nanopore methodology. For more details, check out our pre-print.
Work With Me
My skills and specialties involve microbial ecology and community ecology. I’m proficient in python, QIIME2, statistics, and machine learning, and I’m a certified Carpentries Instructor. I have experience publishing in top-tier journals and I’ve successfully managed fruitful collaborations.
Research Interests
My research interests center around leveraging the power of AI to tackle agricultural challenges by exploring the intricacies of the soil microbiome. Specifically, I am fascinated by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and bacteria, and believe there is still much to uncover about the complex relationships between these crucial organisms. By delving into the world beneath our feet, I hope to uncover new solutions for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Service Projects
For years, I have been involved in the Graduate Student Government and various other student organizations at Northern Arizona University. My service focused on climate action and science advocacy. As a GSG representative, I advocated for carbon neutrality policy within NAU. Currently, we are making strides in incorporating carbon metrics into the Arizona Board of Regents’ long term goals. I also co-founded the Committee for Evidence-Based Action, which organizes the local March for Science and advocates for evidence-based decision-making. For three years, I was co-organizer of the Flagstaff Science on Tap, a series dedicated to communicating science to our local community.
Bo Knows Science 