The International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL), the world’s leading organization for laboratory sustainability, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, announced today that Alison Farmer has been named as the organization’s new President. Farmer also serves as Program Director of I2SL’s Labs2Zero initiative, leading efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce operating costs in laboratory buildings worldwide. She succeeds Gordon Sharp, who served as I2SL President since 2021.

“It’s an honor to step into the President role in this period of growth for I2SL. There’s never been a greater need for our organization,” says Farmer. “Equipped with the tools we’ve built and the support of our incredible community, I2SL is stronger than ever and poised for even greater impact.”

I2SL is a non-profit organization that provides education on sustainable laboratory facilities, from design to engineering to operation. Through its 18 global chapters, worldwide partnerships, and the exchange of technical expertise, I2SL advances safety and sustainability in the ever-changing and dynamic environment of lab facilities. As President, Farmer presides over the organization’s Board of Directors, oversees I2SL’s major initiatives and partnerships, and represents I2SL in the global community.

A former research astrophysicist, Farmer has worked in both consulting and lab-owning organizations, specializing in HVAC controls, energy analysis, and building performance benchmarking for complex facilities. She has led the development of I2SL’s Lab Benchmarking Tool since its creation in 2018 and has headed the Labs2Zero program since its 2022 launch. She directs teams of contractors and expert volunteers from I2SL’s network to develop specialized tools for lab facilities, including automated energy audit software for lab building and operational improvements.

A frequent speaker on lab energy efficiency, Farmer is committed to advancing professional education in the industry. She was also a founding board member of two I2SL chapters, served as President of the Northern California chapter, and later held the roles of board Secretary and Vice President of I2SL.

Before shifting her focus to the built environment, Farmer worked as an academic scientist, earning undergraduate degrees from the University of Cambridge in England and a PhD from Caltech, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University. She is based in Berkeley, California.

For more information about I2SL and its leadership, visit www.i2sl.org and www.i2sl.org/board-of-directors.

Note: A photo of Alison Farmer is available by request at info@i2sl.org.

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