Dr. Karletta Chief discussed her work as a member of the Navajo Bitter Water Clan and how those waterways influenced her to pursue a STEM career as a hydrologist
SACNISTA Dr. Karletta Chief (Navajo) was interviewed last week during the final installation of a series produced by popular weekly radio show Science Friday called “Breakthrough: Portraits of Women in Science.” Dr. Chief, a hydrologist who is a member of the Navajo Bitter Water Clan, discussed her work monitoring the August 2015 toxic waste spill at Gold King Mine that contaminated the Animas River, which flows through Navajo Nation. She also shared how her personal experience with Navajo waterways led her to pursue a career in STEM.
“We are proud to see Dr. Chief’s important work protecting and restoring waterways being highlighted on this prestigious platform. As an underrepresented minority scientist, her story and work underscores the importance of STEM diversity across all industries. We hope the Science Friday spotlight on her efforts monitoring the 2015 Animas River toxic waste spill will inspire other young indigenous science enthusiasts to pursue a career in STEM,” said SACNAS President Lino Gonzalez.
Visit the Science Friday website for a profile and video on Dr. Chief’s research and work with the Navajo community.