I am an Assistant Professor (Teaching) of Political Science and International Relations in the Department of Political Science and International Relations (POIR) at the University of Southern California. I received my Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of California, Irvine. I also have an MA in Conflict, Security, and Development from King's College London, and a BSFS in International Politics from Georgetown University.

My research focuses on the role of women and gender in peace processes and political and security outcomes in post-conflict states. My dissertation and current book project examines the effects of different types of women's participation in peace processes on women's political empowerment in post-conflict states. My next major book project will examine outcomes for transitional justice programs and levels of gender-based violence in post-conflict states. My other research interests include the Women, Peace, and Security agenda; peace processes and conflict resolution; gender and politics; gender and conflict; international security; international negotiations; diplomacy; military learning; and East Asian Security.

My research has been supported by the Kugelman Citizen Peacebuilding Research Fellowship, the Institute for Humane Studies Fellowship, and a University of California Office of the President grant.

Previously, I worked as a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Department of State, where I served in Hong Kong, Doha, and Washington, DC.