“Meet the People Behind the Work”
Caring for People, Protecting the Planet: Martina’s Story
For Martina Merrill, the journey from clinical research to renewable energy is rooted in one purpose: improving people’s lives.
Martina joined LF Bioenergy as an intern while pursuing her MBA at the University of Rochester, graduating in May 2027. She holds a degree in biochemistry from Northeastern University and a master’s degree in applied anatomy from Case Western Reserve University.
Her early career was shaped by science and patient care. As an undergraduate researcher, Martina studied cancer, fibrosis and the extracellular matrix, learning how scientific discovery can unlock new treatment possibilities.
Before beginning her MBA, she served as a Clinical Research Associate in the Oncology Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital. There, she helped onboard patients into clinical trials and supported them through difficult moments in their lives.
“Working directly with patients taught me that every scientific or operational decision ultimately affects a person, a family or a community,” Martina said. “That patient-first perspective continues to shape how I approach my work today.”
To Martina, moving from healthcare to renewable natural gas is not a departure from that mission. It is another way to care for people.
Her healthcare experience showed her how closely human health is connected to the environment. Pollution, emissions and climate-related challenges can affect community health. Martina wanted to move upstream and help address those risks closer to their source.
At LF Bioenergy, she contributes to work that transforms agricultural waste into renewable natural gas, supports dairy farmers and creates environmental and economic value for rural communities.
“Environmental stewardship is a form of patient care,” Martina said. “When we care for the planet, we are also safeguarding the health and well-being of the people who live on it.”
Martina brings a perspective shaped by science, medicine, research and business. Her journey reminds us that clean energy is not only about technology—it is also about people, communities and the future we share.
Outside of work and school, Martina enjoys kayaking, biking, hiking, cooking, baking, photography, travel and reading historical fiction.
