 What is your current job and what does it entail?
I am an environmental research scientist at the Environmental Protection Agency laboratory in Narragansett, RI. We develop methods for identifying toxic compounds in marine sediments. In sediments there are thousands of compounds, but usually only a few of them are toxic. Once the toxic compounds are identified, we can use the information to determine the source of the toxicants, prevent further pollution, and remediate the toxic sediments. We also work on methods to measure ecological effects of toxicants and are beginning to develop methods to look at factors other than toxic pollutants (e.g., nutrients) that affect marine environments. I spend about 35% of my time in the lab/field and 65% at my desk.
What was the key factor in your career decision?
Finding an undergraduate program in environmental toxicology at the University of California at Davis. It showed me there was a way to combine my scientific training with my interests in the environmentt.
What do like most about your career?
I like to think that what I do might make a difference in environmental regulation in this country.
What do you like least about your career?
The bureaucracy, "administrivia," red tape, and how long it takes anything to happen in the governmentt.
What do you do to relax?
I play with my daughter and nephew, run, garden, cook, knit, quilt and listen to music.
Who are your heroes/heroines?
Rosa Parks for refusing to give up her seat on the bus. Georgia O'Keefe for painting so beautifully. Joni Mitchell for her voice and her lyrics.
What advice would you give a high school student who expressed an interest in pursuing a career in your field?
If you want to stay in the sciences and you want to have any control over the work you'll be performing, think about going all the way to a Ph.D.
Are career opportunities in your field increasing or decreasing and why?
I believe there will be opportunities in environmental sciences. Unfortunately, we (as a society) have a long way to go before we have a clean and healthy environment.
What will you be doing 10 years from today?
I hope we will have a more holistic approach to environmental management and be able to use our mechanistic knowledge to explain changes in the field. I think there will also be major changes in the way we relate information (Internet, etc.).
Salary:$80,000 - $100,000
Email:ho.kay@epa.gov
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