From the Lab to International Non-proliferation: The Tale of a Toxicologist and a Chemist
Part One:
Join Andy Nelson on October 14th as he shares his story, starting at the laboratory bench to leading international efforts in chemical non-proliferation. This presentation will discuss how training in human toxicology and laboratory experience developing radiochemical methods for unconventional drilling for natural gas prepared Andy for a career in chemical risk management and preventing the abuse and/or diversion of chemicals from academic laboratories, small-to-medium enterprises, and transport sectors. Andy will share his experience working internationally and with international organizations, like the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
Bio:
Andy Nelson is a Principal Member of the Technical Staff in the Laboratory-Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Office and Office of Research and Development Excellence (ORDE) in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder, a Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Science and Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines, and a Master of Public Health (MPH) and PhD in Human Toxicology from the University of Iowa. Andy joined Sandia National Laboratories in September 2016 in the Center for Global Security and Cooperation (CGSC, 6800) where he focused on promoting peaceful uses of chemicals. In 2022 Andrew became a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT). In 2023, Andrew was awarded an “Up & Coming Innovator” award from Sandia for his contributions to chemical risk management innovation and intellectual property development. He joined the Chief Research Office in 2024 where he leads the Interlaboratory Collaborations Investment Area, Mission Campaigns, and lab-wide efforts in scholarly integrity.