More Than Lab Coats in Her Closet

Dr. Sara Jones enjoys a classic, put-together look, whether at work as the surveillance and evaluation coordinator at the Florida Department of Health or at home practicing the violin. One exception to the look is her frequent accessory — cat hair.

Another important role in her life is serving as the vice president and medical coordinator for the Feline Advocates of Leon County (FALC) and caring for her own two cats. Through her roles at FALC, Jones gets to practice her background in science by coordinating medical care for cats while promoting her passion for her beloved feline friends.

In 2018, Jones moved to Tallahassee to attend graduate school to receive her doctorate at Florida State University. Seeking a furry companion, Jones found herself at the Fat Cat Café, where she adopted one cat and eventually a second.

She kept in touch with the owners of Fat Cat Café, who in 2019, contacted her about being involved in FALC, a nonprofit animal rescue with an emphasis on cats, serving Tallahassee and the Big Bend region.

One of Jones’ many hobbies includes thrifting. When shopping for vintage, she sticks to classic, work-appropriate pieces like this Loft cardigan (pictured) she thrifted from Goodwill. Photo by Alicia Osborne

FALC developed a foster program for cats and kittens that need medical attention before being taken to the Fat Cat Café for adoption. Jones specifically assists with coordinating vet appointments and spays/neuters, working alongside Be The Solution. She often fosters neonatal kittens in need of bottle feeding and critical care cases.

“Tallahassee has a significant cat population, which makes it all the more rewarding to be able to help care for these cats and watch them find loving homes,” said Jones.

Cats are the ideal pets for Jones because of their independent nature, as she spends her time divided between volunteering with FALC and constantly striving to excel in her career as a scientist.

A Florida native, Jones received her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, but when it came time to decide on a Ph.D. program, Florida State University held her interest.

“When I interviewed at FSU, from the start, I felt at home because the program was tight-knit and the professors were invested in each student’s success,” said Jones.

In 2022, Jones received her Ph.D. in biomedical science with an emphasis in neuroscience. One of her most notable studies was observing the effects of aspartame on the brain and behavior and its transgenerational impacts.

Jones boasts another thrifted cardigan from Be The Solution’s The Fix Thrift Shop. Photo by Alicia Osborne

Upon graduating, Jones was hired at the Florida Department of Health, specifically working with the Bureau of Tobacco Free Florida. In this role, Jones conducts data analysis of contracts for foundations that assist people in quitting smoking. Jones serves as a scientific advisor, evaluating the programs to make them as effective as possible.

“I knew I wanted a job in public health in order to help people,” said Jones. “As a scientist, it’s important to understand science, but it’s even more important to understand how science can be used to impact and help people.”

Jones would say she’s predominately left-brained and inclined toward the sciences, but she also plays the violin, something she’s actively done since the age of 8. She was a performer throughout middle and high school, and now she picks up her violin a few times a week as a creative outlet.

“I think it’s important for people to have something that quiets their mind and is simply fun,” said Jones. “That’s what playing the violin is to me — a way to relax and something that’s fun to do with others and alone.”

Her other hobbies include hiking Tallahassee’s many trails, trying Tallahassee’s newest restaurants and shopping at thrift stores, particularly The Other Side Vintage, Community Thrift and Be The Solution’s thrift store, The Fix.

When shopping vintage, she gravitates toward classics and staple pieces in neutral colors. With a business casual dress code during the week, she finds it best to fill her closet with easily paired pieces — dress slacks, nice blouses, a cozy sweater and cute flats. As someone who is always on the go, comfort is key.

Her B. Darlin dress, a popular department store brand, was purchased from The Other Side Vintage. Like all of Jones’ clothes, the dress pairs well with cats, as evidenced by this photo with Electra, one of FALC’s adoptable felines. Photo by Alicia Osborne

At 29, she feels she’s still exploring and figuring out her exact style, feeling too young for some of the more reserved pieces but too old for some of the current trends. One thing she’s staying true to as a millennial is her adoration of ripped skinny jeans.

“Where I may not be as adventurous as some, I really appreciate how having a sense of style connects people,” said Jones. “I love how clothing helps people express themselves and how complimenting someone’s shirt or accessory is a great ice breaker.”

One can be certain that Jones’ greatest discoveries in both thrift stores and the sciences lie ahead.

Editor’s note: The photos of Dr. Sara Jones were taken at Fat Cat Books in Railroad Square Art District before the May 10 tornados touched down in Tallahassee, severely damaging many of the district’s businesses. According to an Instagram post, Fat Cat Books and its cats fared well during the storm. More information about Fat Cat Books and Railroad Square can be found on the organizations’ respective social media pages.