About Josephine's Work

Josephine Benson is a master’s candidate in Earth Sciences at Dartmouth College. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Geology from Brown University. She spent her childhood in Ohio and has lived in New England since 2013, when she began her undergraduate degree. During her time in Rhode Island, she became invested in the local community and committed to protecting and improving natural spaces.

Her thesis work focuses on iron sulfide mineral formation in New Hampshire lakes, combining geochemistry with magnetic analyses. Iron sulfide formation removes contaminants such as lead and arsenic from waters, with potential impacts on human health and local water quality. After earning her degree, she plans to work in environmental consulting, focusing on contaminant forensics and bioremediation.

Beyond research, she is the Vice President of Dartmouth’s Graduate Student Council, where she interfaces with school administration, advocates for graduate students, and manages student groups. She is an engaged member of the local community and looks forward to volunteering weekly at the local humane society and getting outside to rock climb with friends.