Rachel is an assistant professor and a physics education researcher who leverages quantitative methodologies to study educational practices and assessment tools to improve all students' learning outcomes. She is committed to promoting fair and effective practices to enhance the representation of women and other historically marginalized groups in the field of physics. Rachel's research focuses on developing next-generation physics assessments and improving the retention of STEM students from diverse backgrounds. Her broad research questions explore the impact of physics assessments on student success, how to design and utilize assessments to improve diversity and inclusion in the physics classroom, and how to ensure equitable assessment practices to support students in becoming successful career scientists.
Rachel earned her Ph.D. in Physics from West Virginia University in 2018, her M.S. in Physics from West Virginia University in 2014, and her B.S. in Physics from Slippery Rock University in 2012.