Meet the team

  • Dr. Samuel Zarfos

    Lab Technical Director

    Sam boasts 8 years of experience in environmental analysis, with expertise in laboratory management, instrumentation, and safety protocols. Sam is skilled in various analytical techniques, including HPLC, GCMS, and LCMS, with specialized experience in PFAS analysis across diverse matrices. Sam earned his PhD in Chemistry from the University of Tasmania in Australia.

  • Aaron Ervin

    Senior Lab Technician

    Aaron has over 4 years experience working in analytical chemistry labs with a focus on quality, data integrity, data analysis and reporting. Aaron earned his Bachelor degree in Environmental Biology from University of South Florida.

  • Danielle Katz

    Lab Technician

    Danielle recently graduated from UConn with a Bachelors degree in Environmental Sciences and a minor in Wildlife Conservation. Danielle’s experience as an editor and attention to detail are assets to the team.

  • Yasmin Myers

    Lab Technician

    Yasmin recently graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelors degree in Chemistry. Yasmin's eye for organization and documentation is a great fit for our team as we scale up operations and continue to grow.

  • Heinz Gossman

    Lab Technician

    Heinz is a Norridgewock native and comes to Maine Laboratories with a wealth of in lab experience in the water treatment industry. Heinz’ ability to trouble shoot equipment and problem solve in the moment are invaluable to the team.

  • Dr. Chris Richards

    CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICER

    Chris is a professor of Analytical Chemistry with expertise in the development and utilization of highly sensitive analytical techniques. His research lab is investigating the effect of PFOA and PFOS exposure on macrophage, astrocyte, and microglia function and cell viability.

  • Dr. Dave Heidary

    CHIEF QUALITY OFFICER

    Dave has expertise in the development and implementation of assays and methods for drug discovery and compound identification. In addition, Dave has 20 years of experience in method development for the identification and detection of small molecules.

  • Katie Richards, MBA

    CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

    Katie, CEO and founder of Maine Laboratories, is a pioneering leader in PFAS testing solutions. With a strong commitment to public health and environmental safety, Katie has established a cutting-edge analytical laboratory that employs state-of-the-art technology for ultra-low PFAS detection limits. Her expertise in driving strategic growth and innovation in PFAS testing methodologies has positioned Maine Laboratories as a leader in the analytical lab space.