Sarah Manderbach is a water safety researcher at the Illinois State Water Survey, where she conducts vital research on private wells. She earned her bachelor's degree in chemistry from Dickinson College, where she researched the health of biogas digesters at a local farm. After completing her undergraduate studies, Sarah spent a year at Eurofins, analyzing volatile organic compounds in soil samples submitted by clients. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Environmental Health Sciences with a focus on toxicology from Columbia University, where she investigated the potential impacts of climate change on indoor radon concentrations in Pennsylvania. Sarah is passionate about her work, which aims to ensure public health and environmental safety. Read on to learn more about Sarah's journey, her insights into the field of toxicology, and her advice for aspiring scientists in the Q&A that follows.
Q&A with Sarah Manderbach
Q: Can you tell us about yourself and your role at PRI?
A: I grew up in Pennsylvania near Amish country, which is why I'm devoutly loyal to the Phillies. I've always been fascinated by science and knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in this field. My time at PRI is a great next step toward following my dreams.
At PRI, I work with the Illinois State Water Survey to conduct research into private wells. Right now, I am researching testing for Legionella in private wells in Illinois. I also plan to continue my graduate thesis work on indoor radon concentrations in Illinois with respect to climate change.
Q: What drew you to your area of work or study?
A: While I loved chemistry, I was uncertain about the path I would take in this field. However, during my junior year, my advisor taught a class on environmental toxicology that opened my eyes to how everything we do can significantly impact both the health of our environment and public health. I became extremely passionate about this topic and felt it was worth pursuing. I believe there needs to be more communication between those with an in-depth scientific background and those who do not, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. We need to rebuild the trust that has been lost and ensure the public that our research truly matters to their health.
Q: What tools are indispensable to your work?
A: I'm not as familiar with the technical tools used in my line of work. However, I believe communication tools are extremely important, as the research we conduct directly impacts private well owners and other residents.
Q: What questions do you get asked most frequently about your career? How do you answer those questions?
A: People often ask what toxicology is, as it’s not common public knowledge. I explain that toxicology is the science of how chemicals interact within us. I often use alcohol as an example, explaining how it can be extremely toxic to the human body at certain thresholds and how our bodies work to eliminate it.
Q: What advice would you give to those just starting out in your field?
A: Be confident in yourself and your experiences. They are valuable things that no one can take from you. Times are tough right now, but just know that in the end, it’s going to be okay.
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: I'm an avid reader, and I can't leave the house without a book. I love cats and have four amazing ones back in Pennsylvania. I enjoy exploring restaurants and local businesses, and you will often find me at a farmer's market. In my free time, I write and play games with my friends on the weekends.