Nicholas (Nick) Buchanan, Environmental Science Major

From the first day of class, Nick impressed me with this ability to be articulate about difficult topics, and his passion for understanding the complex environment around him…He stands apart from most of his peers in terms of commitment to academic achievement, service and leadership. I am certain Nick will continue to do great and creative things in his future.

- Dr. Malak Tfaily, nominator 

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m originally from Riverside, California and I enjoy backpacking, trail running and snowboarding. 

I originally started as a geology major, but was really interested in how science interacts with people. I hope to finish in Spring 2020 as part of the Accelerated Master’s Program. 

What have you enjoyed most about your major?

My favorite class was Soil Science (ENVS 201) with Dr. Rivka Fidel. It’s the first time I realized how all of the chemistry and math I learned translates into applied science. 

Another favorite part of my time in the department was mentoring students during the 10-week research internship at Biosphere 2 as part of the National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). 

One of the REU students helped me on my research project on mine waste remediation, and I mentored him through the scientific process plus helped him create a poster for the end of the internship.

Any clubs or leadership positions you enjoyed?

I was also an Environmental Science Peer Mentor and helped incoming first-year students adjust to college life and classes. It helped me realize I had a lot to offer in terms of my experience!

I was also a College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences (CALES) Ambassador, helping with college recruiting events, meeting students interested in the environmental science major and doing science outreach events for high schools.

Any scientific research you did?

As part of my Accelerated Master’s Program, I worked with Dr. Robert Root and Dr. Jon Chorover in the Arizona Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC) on mine waste remediation at Superfund sites. 

We are interested in finding out the chemistry of mine tailings in order to better understand if plant growth can detoxify contamination from mines. Much of my project focused on chemistry bench work, and I got to see what scientists in a lab do on the day-to-day. I enjoyed attending the annual National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Superfund meeting and presenting a poster on my project.

Next steps?

I’m looking to finish up school in 2020, and would like to work in the Conservation Corp for a while before looking for a career in environmental policy. 

Words of advice?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help to get what you need to succeed.