WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group welcomes Samantha “Sami” Romanick, Ph.D., to its team of scientists.
As EWG’s analytical chemistry fellow, she will spearhead a new initiative on plastics and microplastics. The initiative will focus on the human health risks associated with plastic pollution in food and consumer products.
Romanick is a molecular biologist by training whose research focuses on how microplastic exposure affects human health. She earned her Ph.D. in cellular and molecular pharmacology and physiology from the University of Nevada, Reno, where she also received her B.S. and M.S. in biotechnology.
Most recently, she completed postdoctoral training at the University of Rochester, New York, developing innovative methods for the identification and characterization of environmental microplastics and studying the impacts of microplastics on biological systems.
“Plastics and microplastics are an urgent environmental and public health issue, and we’re thrilled that Sami is bringing her expertise and passion to EWG,” said EWG co-Founder and President Ken Cook. “Her leadership will help us expand our scientific research and push for policies that protect people from the hidden dangers of plastic pollution.”
“I’m excited to join EWG and contribute to the mission of protecting human health,” said Romanick. “I’m eager to expand the conversation about plastics beyond polluting the environment and into the realm of human health.
“Plastic pollution directly affects people and our environment every day, and there are solutions to this problem that an organization such as EWG can accelerate for a safer, healthier and just future,” she added.
Beyond her academic achievements, she has been a dedicated leader in advancing sustainability and zero-waste initiatives, including:
- Launching a small retail business offering alternatives to single-use plastic household products.
- Educating high school students on human health and environmental threats from plastic pollution.
- Directing composting and recycling programs at community events and festivals.
- Researching microplastic pollution in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert.
- Organizing the Microplastic Workgroup of Western New York, bringing together more than 70 researchers and advocates from 22 organizations across the U.S. and Canada.
Her commitment to reducing plastic waste reflects EWG’s mission to combine cutting-edge science with bold advocacy. Through her new role, Romanick will help EWG drive evidence-based policy changes to safeguard communities from the growing threat of plastic pollution.
Romanick joins EWG’s science team, bringing the total to eight Ph.D. scientists and three experts with master’s degrees in public health.
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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.
