Katarina works with the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute Military Land Sustainability Program and supports projects involving Threatened and Endangered species monitoring, invasive species management, habitat restoration, and carbon sequestration evaluations. Prior to joining NRI, Katarina earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology with a concentration in Ecology from Texas A&M University - San Antonio (TAMUSA) in 2022. During her time as a student, and the year after graduation, she worked at TAMUSA as a research assistant and lead research technician, studying anthropogenic pollution - noise and nightlight - with its effects on avian diversity and nesting in south San Antonio. She also worked on a project monitoring Painted Bunting nesting and fledgling movements. In her free time, Kat enjoys hiking with her dogs, birding/herping, and riding horses.