research

Publications

You can find my peer-reviewed research publications indexed at:

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Ethnographic

My experience conducting community-engaged ethnographic research in the U.S. includes a three year study of community milk sharing and breastfeeding narratives. I also completed a small ethnographic study to understand infant and young child feeding among families experiencing food insecurity and houselessness in Hawai’i (Honolulu and Hilo). I have conducted ethnographic research internationally as well. I was the principal investigator of a multi-sited rapid ethnographic assessment of infant and young child feeding in emergencies (IYCF-E) aid during the Syrian refugee crisis in western Europe (Greece, France, Germany, U.K.).

I spent the early phase of my graduate studies engaged in intensive Thai language and area studies, with a focus on the use of traditional Thai medicines (สมุนไพรไทย) for people living with HIV/AIDS in Thailand. However, my dissertation research was based on a 10-month ethnographic study of migration, health, and medical pluralism among a community of Tobian and Sonsorolese Islanders living in Koror, Republic of Palau. Before beginning that project, I joined a team supporting a local community assessment to help design a community-led marine resource management program for Helen Reef. [Click the photo below to learn more about this inspiring work led by the people of Hatohobei.] I have an enduring interest in the use of plants in food and medicine for pregnancy, birth, and lactation particularly in the context of migration, displacement, and climate change.