I have 20 years of experience, and specialize in the field of paleontology and evolutionary biology with specific knowledge in the areas of paleobotany, earth history and environmental and climate change. I have published on such topics as extinction, plant evolution and stable isotope geochemistry. I have extensive field experience, having worked with colleagues and students in the field throughout North America, in Australia, New Zealand, China, and Colombia and Ecuador (South America). This experience gives me insight into the risks, responsibilities, and liabilities of working with groups in challenging field situations.