Dr Shira Joudan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Alberta. Her environmental analytical chemistry research group studies the environmental fate of organic contaminants, including halogenated chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Shira’s research group is specifically interested in how chemical reactions in the environment impact how contaminants are transported and potentially accumulate. The group innovates chromatography and mass spectrometry-based analytical methods to apply to environmental samples and lab experiments. Ultimately, their research helps inform policy and hopefully helps to design chemicals that provide functionality without environmental harm. Shira grew up in Winnipeg, obtained her BSc from Carleton University, her PhD from the University of Toronto, and held a postdoctoral research position at York University in Toronto. Outside of research and teaching, she is a columnist for Nature Chemistry, where she writes about being a pre-tenure faculty member, and enjoys exploring cities, live music, and spending time with friends.