I am a postdoctoral research fellow working with a vibrant team of inflammatory bowel disease researchers at the University of Manitoba. My role in this diverse collaboration is to study brain changes associated with Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis using magnetic resonance imaging. Building on my background of research examining the neural correlates of peer victimization, I am particularly interested in exploring the interaction between early life adversity/childhood trauma, psychological comorbidities, and differences in brain structure and function in inflammatory bowel disease. Beyond my ongoing research, I enjoy leading community outreach activities aimed at promoting interest and education about the brain in school-aged children. Outside of work, I am also a Mom of two young kids. I believe that my professional aspirations have been informed and shaped for the better since becoming a parent, as I feel more motivated than ever to make positive and lasting contributions.