Chemistry Major Turned Environmental Scientist
From his hometown of Newcastle, Maine, to the campus of Grinnell College, Finn Dworkin’s (’22) studies and research on water-quality issues are making a difference. As Dworkin learned in his classes at Grinnell, the effects of water pollution are devastating to our environment, health, and economy. The more we learn about the problem, he says, the better equipped we will be to prevent further damage.
In his first year at Grinnell, Dworkin enjoyed his introductory science classes and using the technology and instruments in the lab. He realized that he wanted to learn more. This desire led to Dworkin’s decision to major in chemistry. His chemistry courses included laboratory work and hands-on learning, which allowed him to apply his curiosity directly to coursework.
At Grinnell, Dworkin was able to study the water ecosystems near campus. He saw firsthand the impacts that humans have had on our ecosystems. He found himself asking more questions and wanting to dig deeper. After observing the concerning pollution levels in Iowa's surface water, Dworkin wanted to understand how human activities affect the environment and to help remedy or prevent further environmental damage and harm to human health. Dworkin's curiosity and hunger for answers prompted this research. He says that chemistry in the lab often leads to unpredictable answers or new questions.
Research and Internship Opportunities at Grinnell
In pursuit of answers, Dworkin pursued an internship with a research team in his home state of Maine in 2021. He spent the summer working with a team led by Steve Archer at Bigelow Laboratories in East Boothbay, Maine. This team studied and monitored the prevalence of algae toxins in shellfish populations over time, determining the seasonal and lifetime implications for consumer safety.
Back on the Grinnell campus that next fall, Dworkin presented his research to the chemistry department. His data analysis showed that the areas with the highest toxin concentrations were urban centers and stagnant bays. Dworkin says that the areas with the lowest concentrations were rural areas with lots of flowing rivers to remove algae. He hypothesized that human activities in the bays could increase algae growth, making local shellfish unsafe to consume. Shellfish are vital to the regional economy and the tourist industry in Maine. This research is helping residents understand and protect the environment, consumer health, and local economic interests. Dworkin believes that understanding how we as humans affect the environment can help us reduce and prevent detrimental impacts.
From the beginning, Dworkin knew that a desk job was not for him. As he began to realize that he wanted to focus on environmental chemistry, Dworkin was happy to learn that he could balance his time in the field with laboratory work, combining two parts of scientific research he has come to appreciate.
Grinnell's Supportive and Empowering Atmosphere
Dworkin says that the Center for Careers, Life, and Service (CLS) helped him plan his life after graduation from Grinnell. The CLS staff and faculty supplied him with invaluable information that helped him understand his options. The CLS is an asset to students that offers excellent information, guidance, support, and networking.
When asked which faculty members had a positive influence on his academic career, Dworkin is quick to say that he feels that the entire chemistry department has been behind him the whole way. However, he is especially grateful for the mentoring he received from Professors David Campbell, Andrew Graham, Erick Leggans, Andrew Mobley, and Diana Thatcher.
What would Dworkin tell his younger self, just beginning his studies at Grinnell? Dworkin says he would advise himself to expand the range of classes he takes and to build even more student, alumni, and professor relationships.