SoE Staff Spotlight: Glen Andrew de Vera, MIT CEE
As MIT CEE’s first official Environment Health Safety (EHS) Coordinator, Glen Andrew de Vera played a pivotal role in establishing and strengthening the department’s environmental health and safety program. During his tenure, he developed and implemented numerous EHS policies, procedures, and best practices that continue to benefit our community. Through his ability to build trust, foster strong relationships, and engage stakeholders across the department, he successfully embedded a culture of safety within CEE.
Glen’s leadership and dedication resulted in a significant increase in EHS training compliance and improved awareness of safety responsibilities throughout the department. He consistently approached challenges with a collaborative spirit and a solutions-oriented mindset, making complex EHS requirements easier for faculty, staff, students, and researchers to understand and implement.
Beyond his technical expertise, Glen is known for his kindness, approachability, and genuine commitment to supporting others. He was always willing to help, listen, and find practical solutions to EHS-related concerns. His positive attitude and dedication made him a trusted resource and an invaluable member of the CEE community. Although Glen has recently transitioned to a full-time Research Scientist position, his extraordinary contributions as EHS Coordinator deserve special recognition.
Profile
Name: Glen Andrew de Vera, PhD
Job Title: Research Scientist 3
Department, Lab, or Center: Civil and Environmental Engineering
How long have you worked at MIT: I have worked at MIT for approximately 5 years – as a postdoctoral researcher from February 2019 to May 2020, a Visiting Lecturer for 1.080 Environmental Chemistry from February to May 2022, a Research Scientist and EHS Coordinator from July 2023 to July 2026, and a full-time Research Scientist 3 since August 1, 2026.
In a few short sentences, describe your role and responsibilities at MIT: I am a Research Scientist 3 in MIT’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, working in the Plata Lab. I study the fate and transformation of contaminants, develop analytical methods to detect them, and develop and optimize treatment technologies. I also mentor students and collaborate with academic and industry partners.
What is your favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is working with passionate people who take pride in what they do, solve complex problems, and share a commitment to protecting the environment. I love the pursuit of scientific discovery and being surrounded by talented, inspiring students and colleagues who make the work so rewarding.
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d feel comfortable sharing: I enjoy playing basketball and singing in a band or choir. I also love listening to my son make music and cheering him on in all his sports endeavors.
More about me is here: https://cee.mit.edu/from-flooded-streets-to-mit-glen-de-veras-lifelong-quest-to-protect-global-water-health/
