Dr. Alison Zachritz

Postdoctoral Researcher
Contact: azachrit@nd.edu

I am a postdoctoral researcher investigating the movement of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in freshwater food webs and across the Great Lakes watershed, under the mentorship of Dr. Daniele Miranda. My current work explores PFAS cycling in Lake Michigan tributaries, the role of biofilm in PFAS fate and transport, and molecular changes in fish exposed to PFAS.

Trained as an aquatic ecologist (Ph.D., University of Notre Dame, 2025, advised by Dr. Gary Lamberti), I combine field and laboratory experiments to understand how PFAS move through aquatic systems. My graduate work examined whether PFAS influence ecosystem functioning (e.g., metabolism, decomposition), resource subsidies (e.g., energetic transfers), or ecosystem services (e.g., providing safe food sources).

I hold a B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Michigan. Prior to graduate school, I worked for 5 years as an environmental consultant in the Great Lakes region and in New York City focusing on water quality and environmental permitting. These experiences strengthened my understanding for the connection between science, policy, and enforcement, and I strive to make my research relevant and accessible to environmental professionals across the public and private sectors. I bring expertise with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), bench chemistry, water quality analyses, and statistical modeling.