From his distinguished 30-year career in environmental science to his current work of preventing nuclear events as a member of the Department of Homeland Security, this alumnus has used his chemistry background to address some of the country's most significant challenges.

At Grinnell, this alumnus was a top student, earning Dean's list honors and majoring in chemistry. After graduating from Grinnell, this alumnus earned a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa, and served stints in three highly regarded environmental research labs. He developed techniques to analyze a range of environmental substances and authored Analytical Chemistry of PCBs. This book is regarded as the definitive book on PCBs, which are toxic organic compounds that have been linked to cancer. He has authored hundreds papers and scientific reports on a range of topics, and his invention of a new technology for analyzing radiological contamination earned a R&D 100 Award from R&D magazine.

In 1997, this alumnus became the director of the Environmental Measurements Laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, which was responsible for monitoring radioactive substances in the environment. In 2003, the department was integrated with the Department of Homeland Security, where his responsibilities grew to include protecting against and responding to radiological and nuclear events. His current research focuses on integrating data from disparate sources and improving radiation detection and radiological instruments.

In addition to his work with chemical safety and national security, this alumnus has been an active volunteer for both the Boy Scouts and Grinnell, where he known for his considerable organizational skills, adventurous spirit, and sense of humor.

For his significant research contributions and his work to make our country safer, we are proud to recognize Mitchell D. Erickson '72.