sarah zack

Sarah Zack is joining the IISG pollution prevention team as its new extension specialist.

She will be integrating program leadership, and public engagement and developing extension and outreach activities for the pollution prevention programs, especially related to management of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in the environment, microplastics pollution in the Great Lakes, and other emerging contaminants of concern.

For the past five years, Zack has worked in IISG’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) program and was instrumental in developing the Be A Hero-Transport Zero™ campaign. She also researched AIS best management practices for fishing tournament anglers and organizers.

“I’m very excited to begin my new role with IISG, and to work with some of you in new ways,” Zack said. “This is a great group to work with, and I’m thrilled to be able to take on a new challenge while still staying a part of IISG.”

Zack has a Master’s degree in biology with an emphasis on aquatic ecology from Loyola University Chicago.

IISG Instagram

Celebrate Earth Day with freshwater science and good conversation! Join Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, the Northwestern Center for Water, Loyola University researcher Tim Hoellein, and IISG’s Sarah Zack for Science Sips: Trash Talk about Chicago Waterways. Learn what research reveals about litter and trash in Lake Michigan and Chicago waterways and what we can do to help.Plus, enjoy Great Lakes trivia games!📅 April 22, 2026⏰ 7–9 PM📍 Sketchbook Brewing Company, Evanston Tap RoomCome curious and ready to test your Great Lakes knowledge!
Find us at Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, March 27–29! We’re linking Subnautica with Great Lakes science through fun, hands‑on activities about food webs, invasive species, and aquaponics.Come geek out with us! 🔗 in bio for event info
Coastal protection is not limited to concrete, rocks, and steel. Coastal protection solutions exist on a spectrum, ranging from softer “green” solutions to harder “gray” structures.Nature-based coastal solutions fall between green and gray techniques, providing multiple benefits to people and habitats.Our three-part video series, Nature-Based Coastal Solutions in the Great Lakes, is now available to watch. Learn how nature-based coastal solutions, including nature-driven and hybrid approaches, can protect shorelines while supporting ecosystems and communities.Watch the 3-part video series at the link in bio.(Photo credit: Liz Spitzer, Illinois State Geological Survey, Coastal Research Group)