Jacob Handel
General Research Assistant
General Research Assistant Jacob Handel hails from northern Illinois, outside of the Chicago suburbs. He graduated from Iowa State University with a double major in Environmental Science and Biology, with a minor in Agronomy. He also spent a semester abroad in Cambodia studying with the School for Field Studies.
What work experiences are most relevant to your position at The Land Institute?
Serving as the disinfectant byproducts rule manager with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Public Drinking Water unit provided me with insight into public health and natural resource regulation. I have also worked in a variety of educational capacities, including as a tutor for my university and environmental educator for the Scouts, BSA – allowing me to practice my science communications.
I’m really excited to be able to get involved with the research itself and learn from so many talented people.
What drew you to work at The Land Institute?
I have heard it is a great place to work and that they work on incredible projects.
What’s one aspect of your life history that most people don’t know or wouldn’t expect?
I worked the summer of 2020 at a landfill. As a laborer. With my friends. It was weird but not as gross as one might assume. Definitely daunting to see so much waste in one place!
What’s your motto or favorite quote?
Be proud of your place in the cosmos. It is small, and yet it is. – WTNV