I study the transition from student to scientist, particularly in educational environments that seek to make this transition at the earliest ages possible. This manifests formalizing a pedagogy for STEM research as the major focus of my work. I aim to develop the knowledge base necessary to support the effective implementation of authentic research experiences in schools across the world. My work extends from my recent teaching and leadership commitments with the Department of Science and Technology (through the Philippine Science High School System) focusing on the improved delivery and implementation of educational opportunities for Filipinos in science.

My undergraduate work in chemistry and graduate work in applied mathematics allow me to fill the local needs for experimental design and analysis. A large aspect of my educational work has always involved improving outcomes of high school students in STEM research. I founded Tanim Talino to bridge the gap in Filipino student preparedness for research, specifically as a response to the remote learning circumstances during the pandemic.

While my primary explorations require a close study of classrooms and laboratories, my work prioritizes the investigation of the roles and experiences of students participating in research experiences. I seek to study how students think and feel about being involved in science, how social structures plant and form these ideas, and whether authentic research experiences interfere with a child’s experience of being a child.