This Is What Science Looks Like at NC State: Heather Patisaul

Editor’s note: This post comes from Heather Patisaul, an associate professor of biology at NC State.The post is part of an ongoing series that we hope will highlight the diversity of researchers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The series is inspired by the This Is What A Scientist Looks Like site.

I am Heather Patisaul, an associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, and my work seeks to understand how chemicals in our environment are reshaping our brains, our bodies and our behavior. I’m particularly interested in how male and female brains are different, how they change through adolescence, and how chemicals like BPA in plastics, and flame retardants in our furniture, alter this developmental process.

We have more than 400 chemicals in our body at any given time. I seek to understand if and how they are harmful. In addition to my research I also do a lot of public policy work, communicate with various media groups to spread the word about how to minimize chemical exposures, and give numerous lectures at local museums and schools about the chemicals in our world and in our bodies.

I love science and my work keeps me busy, but I also love living in NC and always make time for my two kids and the outdoors. Raised on the beaches of Florida, I was always an “outside kid” and that hasn’t changed. I am a passionate runner and regularly participate in the NC State Krispy Kreme Challenge (in costume, of course) and numerous other races including half marathons and the Blue Ridge Relay. I also love to mountain bike, climb, swim, and travel. I’ve been to six of seven continents. Getting to that elusive seventh is one of my key goals.