معرفی
Sarick Lars Matzen is an Assistant Professor (starting January 1, 2025) in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Chicago, within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on environmental geochemistry, particularly soil and environmental biogeochemistry, nanoparticle behavior, and environmental justice. He employs synchrotron-based methods and electron microscopy to study elemental fate and transport in diverse environments, including urban soils, deep ocean hydrothermal vents, and extraterrestrial icy moons.
Education:
- BA in Environmental Science, Hampshire College (1999)
- PhD in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley (2020)
- Postdoctoral Associate in Soil, Water, and Climate, University of Minnesota (2020–2024)
Research Interests: Dr. Matzen investigates contaminant distribution, carbon sequestration in urban soils, and community-driven urban green space rehabilitation. He collaborates with environmental justice and urban agriculture groups to enhance livable cities. Current projects include urban soil contaminant toxicity, marine colloid transport, and biogeochemical tracers on icy ocean moons through partnerships like the NSF SEES SYSTER Program.
Advising & Grants: He seeks students interested in metal transport and bioavailability in urban soils. His work bridges geochemical tools with environmental justice advocacy, emphasizing practical solutions for contaminated landscapes.
Labs/Teams: The Matzen Lab at UIC focuses on trace metalloid cycles, particularly in urban agricultural systems, leveraging low-temperature geochemistry to support food sovereignty and environmental justice initiatives.
