Story courtesy of Buffalo's Athletic Communications Department

BUFFALO, NY – Sophie Thornburg of the University at Buffalo swimming and diving program represented the Bulls at the 2026 International Society of Exposure Science convention in Vancouver, Canada. The freshman presented research on aerosol vapors in high school bathrooms to practitioners, researchers and leaders worldwide.

The 2026 ISES convention represented a global science community, seeking to share new findings, spark collaboration, and translate science into real-world impact. Exposure science, also known as exposomics, is an emerging framework that aims to comprehensively assess the multitude of exposures people and communities face in their environments throughout their lifetime, to understand their influence on health, disease, and well-being. These include harmful but also protective or health-promoting exposures and factors in the environment.

"I loved meeting fellow students and learning from experienced researchers," said Thornburg. "It was extremely fun to discuss different topics and advancements that are being made in the field of exposure."

Thornburg, a native of Durham, North Carolina, made her collegiate debut with the Bulls in the program's first meet of the season on October 17^th, competing against Cornell and Niagara. Prior to Buffalo, Thornburg was a member of the Charles E. Jordan High School team and North Carolina Aquatic Club. She finished fourth in the 500-yard freestyle (4:59.95) and sixth in the 200-yard freestyle (1:52.97) at the NCHSAA 4A Central Regionals. Thornburg also placed seventh at the NCHSAA 4A State Championship in the 500-yard freestyle (4:59.98).