Elizabeth Dearing

What is your position at UNC-Chapel Hill, and how long have you been associated with the University?

I am a Biosafety and Shipping Specialist with the Environment, Health and Safety department and have been with the University for two years.

How did you initiate your career in this field, or what led you to your current position?

My breakout into this field was a bit untraditional. At the age of 18, having no research experience, I applied to a laboratory assistant role on a whim, simply because the idea of working in a lab sounded cool! Just shy of a decade later and my love for the world of discovery never stopped growing. Through the years, I was fortunate enough to explore different aspects research to hone my interests; my favorites being animal welfare and high containment work. The biggest factor that led to my current position was the desire to promote positive change in the realm of research and safety.

Which sectors of the University does your role impact, and in what ways does it contribute to those areas of work?

One of the greatest things about EHS is the diversity of engagement on a day-to-day basis. The department has outreach to nearly every aspect of the University, so working with so many different people make every day unique!

Describe what you love most about your job.

The thing I love most about this job is my coworkers! They offer endless support and are always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needs it. Additionally, the most interesting aspect of this role is that no two days are ever the same.

What advice do you have for those interested in entering a career in your line of work?

Advice I wish I had when I was just starting out is to seek out opportunities and explore the field. It is vast and no niche is too small to invest in. When you find the work that hooks you, the search feels worth it!