I am an Associate Professor in UBC s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering. I earned my BSc in Chemical Engineering, Cooperative program at the University of Alberta and a PhD in Chemical and Environmental Engineering at the University of California Riverside. As a UBC professor, I split my time between research and teaching. My research investigates ways of transforming waste plant material into materials, chemicals and fuels that replace oil based products. I work with undergraduate students, PhD students, fellow UBC professors, and local companies to develop technology that will transform Canadian forestry companies. One of my favourite parts of teaching is helping students find the lightbulb moment when something that confused them becomes clear. I am excited to lead Jump Start lectures and welcome everyone to UBC.