Karen Murray, Ph.D.
About Karen Murray, Ph.D.
Karen Murray, Ph.D., is a Managing Scientist at Exponent, specializing in mercury contamination and petroleum hydrocarbon fingerprinting. With a background in Environmental Engineering Science and Marine Chemistry, she has extensive experience in the interactions between microorganisms and chemicals.
Work at Exponent
Karen Murray has served as a Managing Scientist at Exponent since 2007. In this role, she provides technical consulting on mercury contamination cases, focusing on the complex chemical and biological reactions that influence the methylation and toxicity of mercury. Her work involves analyzing the interactions between microorganisms and chemicals, particularly in relation to contaminants' potential toxicity and mobility. Based in the Maynard area of Massachusetts, she has contributed to various projects over her 17 years at the company.
Education and Expertise
Karen Murray holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she studied from 1996 to 1999. She furthered her education at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, earning a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Oceanography with a focus on marine chemistry and microbiology from 1999 to 2005. Her academic background supports her specialization in the interactions between microorganisms and chemicals.
Background
Before joining Exponent, Karen Murray worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Stanford University from 2005 to 2007. This position allowed her to deepen her research skills and expertise in environmental science. Her extensive background in both academic and consulting environments has equipped her with the knowledge necessary to address complex environmental contamination issues.
Contamination Analysis Expertise
Karen Murray has extensive experience in petroleum hydrocarbon fingerprinting, which is essential for identifying the source and extent of contamination resulting from oil spills, leaking tanks, and other accidental releases. Her work in this area demonstrates her capability to analyze and address significant environmental challenges, particularly those involving hazardous materials.