July 23, 2025
The Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center (MW CASC) is pleased to welcome Sarah Anderson to the team as a research assistant. Anderson is based at the University of Minnesota’s Institute on the Environment and works closely with the MW CASC program manager and communications manager to support the Center's research projects and activities. She brings with her experience in partnership-building, research execution and support, project coordination, and science communication.
In this role, she is excited to make an impact by strengthening relationships and partnerships across the MW CASC community and by streamlining workflows and processes.
5 Questions to Get to Know Sarah
Where are you from?
“I am from Minnesota and have spent the majority of my life in the Midwest! I have undergraduate degrees in Biology and Environmental Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College, located in St. Peter, Minnesota and a master’s degree in Horticulture from the University of Minnesota. In addition to my time as a student, I’ve worked for an environmental education NGO, spent time abroad in the Netherlands with Naturalis Biodiversity Center, and most recently, spent a fall field season at the Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve. I am thrilled to be back at the University of Minnesota and especially honored to join the MW CASC.”
How did you get interested in environmental-related work?
“I’ve loved the outdoors for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until my time at Gustavus Adolphus College that I began to really see myself in an environmental career. One particularly influential project that sparked my interest in this field was an undergraduate research experience seeking to measure carbon sequestration potentials of restored and remnant prairies in southern Minnesota. Since then, I’ve sought out a variety of roles focused on learning more about our natural world and sharing that knowledge with others.”
What’s most exciting to you about joining the MW CASC community?
“Each year, the need for climate change adaptation and biodiversity conservation becomes more pressing. I’ve always had a strong desire to make an impact in this field – which is why I am thrilled to join the MW CASC community. We know that the most effective strategies to tackle environmental issues are partnership-driven, which makes this work even more impactful. I am excited about the MW CASC’s focus on conducting interdisciplinary research that brings in the perspectives of research-focused academic, Tribal, federal, and non-profit partners.”
What’s something you like to do outside of work?
“Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, backpacking, crafting, biking and running.”
Do you have a favorite outdoor spot in the Midwest?
“My favorite place in the Midwest is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) Wilderness in northern Minnesota. The waters are pristine and the wildlife is abundant. I try to visit once a summer for some peace and tranquility.”