Trained as a PhD neuroscientist, Sara transitioned to become a discipline-based education researcher and conducts research on how we can make undergraduate biology learning environments more inclusive, specifically focusing on women, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, transfer students, and religious students.

She is a national expert on course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) and has advocated for them as a route to broaden access to undergraduate research. She has been awarded multiple teaching and research awards and is the proud recipient of the 2020 LGBTQ+ Educator of the Year award. Sara is also a member of the LGBTQ+ community.