Mentorship in Science: Insights from FeMS Empowerment Award Winner Faith Johnson

Each quarter, the group Females in Mass Spectrometry (FeMS) presents empowerment awards to members that demonstrate excellence both in their work and their support of women in science. FeMS is a community-led group that has developed a network of support for women working in mass spectrometry. For years, FeMS has supported events all over the world where women in mass spectrometry can gather and discuss their findings and career experiences.

This quarter, FeMS presented Empowerment Awards to five women, including Faith Johnson of ECOLAB, who joined FeMS in June 2024. LCGC International recently sat down with Johnson to discuss her career in climate science, how mass spectrometry relates to her field, the award, and her work with FeMS.

How does analytical science help in addressing climate change?

Analytical science plays a vital role in adapting to climate change by providing essential data and insights into environmental changes. Techniques such as chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy enable researchers to monitor pollutants, track greenhouse gas emissions, and assess the health of ecosystems. This information is crucial for developing effective strategies and policies to mitigate climate impacts and enhance resilience.

How has mass spectrometry (MS) been useful in environmental and climate analysis?

Mass spectrometry (MS) is invaluable in environmental and climate analysis due to its sensitivity and ability to detect trace levels of contaminants. It is used to analyze pollutants in air, water, and soil, helping researchers identify sources of pollution and assess the impact on ecosystems and human health. Additionally, MS assists in isotopic analysis, providing insights into historical climate data and informing future climate models.

What advice would you give to other scientists who are looking to find mentors and make connections across the industry?

I recommend actively seeking mentorship by attending industry conferences, participating in networking events, and joining professional organizations. Utilizing platforms like LinkedIn can also facilitate connections with potential mentors. It’s essential to be proactive in reaching out and expressing genuine interest in learning from experienced professionals in your field.

Are there any new projects that you're focused on moving forward?

Currently, I am focusing on researching cyanobacteria and their potential effects on wildlife in game parks. My goal is to investigate the presence of harmful cyanobacteria in water sources and understand how these organisms can affect animals that rely on these water sources for hydration. Cyanobacteria can produce toxins that pose serious health risks to wildlife, particularly when animals drink contaminated water. By identifying areas where these toxic blooms occur, I aim to contribute to conservation efforts that protect wildlife and maintain the ecological balance within these critical habitats.

What can you tell us about your research with antibiotics? What sorts of techniques were involved during the experiment phase?

My research on antibiotics involved techniques such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for detecting antibiotic residues in environmental samples. The experimental phase included sample preparation, extraction, and validation of methods to ensure accurate results, with the goal of assessing the prevalence of antibiotics in ecosystems and their ecological impacts.

When did you become a member of FeMS? How has the group impacted your career?

I became a member of FeMS in 2024. Being part of this organization has significantly impacted my career by providing valuable networking opportunities, resources for professional development, and a platform for advocating for women in analytical science. The support from fellow members has been crucial in my journey.

What advice would you give to other women looking to advance their careers in analytical science?

My advice for women in analytical science is to be confident in their abilities and to actively seek out mentorship. Building a strong professional network and participating in discussions about gender equality in science can open doors and provide support for career advancement.

How can the scientific community better support women in science?

The scientific community can better support women by promoting inclusive policies, providing mentorship programs, and ensuring equal access to resources and opportunities. It is also vital to create a culture that values diverse perspectives and actively addresses gender bias.

Do you have any goals for yourself for the coming year?

In the coming year, my goal is to delve deeper into cyanobacteria research and explore their role in sustainable practices.

For more interviews from Empowerment Award winners, check out our interviews with Colleen Maxwell and Susana Palma.