I completed my studies at the University of Bamberg and the University of Edinburgh with a PhD.

I then worked for many years as an exhibition researcher, e.g. at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. During this time I was also invited to be an expert on a television documentary about the German-American piano maker Henry E. Steinway.

I have written articles on the history of German emigration to the United States from the 17th to the 20th centuries.

Since 2002 I have been working as a freelance genealogist and author of family chronicles for the company "Pro Heraldica". "Pro Heraldica" is the most successful and well known genealogy company in Germany. 

I have worked for large international companies such as AncestryProGenealogists and Treethorpe Limited.

I  conduct research for individual clients from Europe, USA, Canada and Australia.

In 2020, I was an expert at RootsTech's Coaches Corner in Salt Lake City. In 2024 and 2025, I provided virtual consultations to RootsTech visitors (FamilySearch). 

I conducted research for the US version of the television series "Who Do You Think You Are?", and discussed a family history with a celebrity on camera for the Australian version. 
I have also consulted on several book projects.

I'm a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG).