Jan Schlichtmann

In 1973, Jan Schlichtmann graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and in 1977 earned his law degree from Cornell. In 1978, Schlichtmann began private practice in Massachusetts as a trial lawyer earning recognition for his innovative work in civil justice, science and the environment.

Schlichtmann is renowned for his pioneering work in the Woburn water contamination case that for the first time brought together leading experts in science, medicine, and engineering and used a novel multi-disciplinary approach to unravel the complex interaction between industrial activities and the public health. Schlichtmann’s groundbreaking work has been the subject of a number of legal and scientific journals and books, national and international television and radio shows, press reports, and magazine stories including "60 Minutes" and "Nova." The Woburn odyssey was chronicled in the national bestseller, "A Civil Action" that became a major motion picture starring John Travolta as Mr. Schlichtmann.

Schlichtmann has lectured at many of the nation's law schools and colleges and spoken before numerous national and regional professional and civic groups, has appeared on a number of the country's major radio and television shows, and has participated in an array of public forums on issues of law, public policy and the environment. In addition, Schlichtmann has consulted with and testified before several governmental agencies and legislative committees on issues regarding the environment, science and civil justice.

Responding to the challenge of our time, Schlichtmann has devoted himself to working with others to develop and support innovative thinking in the law and transformative technology that takes its inspiration from nature. He believes that law and science that is collaborative and healing offers humankind its best hope for a safer, healthier, and better future.