Heather Lanza

“I like doing work that makes a difference,” says environmental scientist Heather Lanza. “Sometimes you can get stuck into a report and forget the big picture, but in my role as an environmental risk assessor, the work we do impacts real communities, and understanding what’s important to them and what we need to consider in our investigations and assessments is really critical.”

Heather specializes in risk assessment and toxicology, with a unique understanding of emerging environmental issues and chemical exposure health effects. She is an invaluable asset at sites impacted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other contaminants.

She has presented around the world on numerous PFAS-related topics, including how these substances accumulate in terrestrial ecosystems, fish, and biota. Heather's recently published work focuses on how PFAS accumulates in biota downstream of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) release sites.

“I was struck by the focus and value placed on employees. The opportunities for continued learning, flexible working, and identification of the right person for the job regardless of physical location were all key selling points for me. Also, the technical leadership and tenure of employees made CDM Smith feel like the right fit,” she says about her experience with the firm.