Where does pollution go once it enters the ground and how could it be cleaned up? That’s the question driving my work as a hydrogeochemist – a scientist who investigates how chemicals move through soil, groundwater, and surface water. I began my career in the US as a uranium geochemist before moving to Sydney 4 years ago. Now, I work on contaminated sites across Australia, including landfills, mines, and airports, looking at nutrients, metals, and ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAS). My favourite tools are 3D models, environmental tracers, and geochemical diagrams, which help me communicate my work and make the invisible processes visible.
Research keyword/s: Hydrogeochemistry
About the BEAKER STREET ROVING SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Each August, hundreds of Roving Scientists descend upon Hobart, filling up pubs and chatting to strangers as part of Beaker Street Festival. Discover a new world down the lens of microscope, and joining the least-boring bar conversations you’ve ever heard and these free (the chats – not the drinks) events.
For Scientists, Beaker Street’s Roving Scientist Program offers an excellent outreach, professional development, and networking opportunity. It’s the nerdiest and funnest way to share your research with the public, expand your network, and be inspired by leaders in all sectors of science and science communication.
