Mikhail Sogonov

Dr. Mikhail Sogonov, PhD, is the founder of InSitu Laboratory — an indoor environmental inspection company whose name says it all: in situ is Latin for "in place," meaning on-site. The GWCIM team has worked with Dr. Sogonov for over 15 years, and hundreds of our patients have benefited from his methods.

What makes Dr. Sogonov unusual is the combination of two skill sets that rarely come together: deep scientific expertise in mycology and hands-on experience in the construction trades. He earned his PhD from Moscow State University specializing in soil microfungi — the same group that includes many indoor molds — and went on to train at the CBS Fungal Biodiversity Center in the Netherlands, one of the world's premier mycology institutions. He later built an industry career at EMSL Analytical, one of North America's largest environmental testing firms, rising from mycologist to microbiology manager. Alongside all of this, he developed practical construction skills in drywall, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and painting.

His founding insight at InSitu was simple but powerful: because most mold analysis relies on light microscopy, bringing the mycologist and the microscope directly to the building improves both accuracy and speed. On-site testing reduces gaps in information, allows for more targeted sampling, and leads to faster, better decisions for clients.

Most environmental testing companies collect samples and send them to a remote lab, introducing delays, gaps in information, and limited ability to follow up on unexpected findings. Dr. Sogonov's approach is different. By bringing a microscope directly to the inspection site, InSitu is able to analyze samples in real time, ask better questions, and adjust the investigation as it unfolds.

The result is faster decision-making, more targeted sampling, and a clearer picture of what is actually happening in a building, which ultimately means better outcomes for clients.

The main object of their inspections is mold, but InSitu also checks for sewage contamination and pet and pest allergens. Most of the analyses are performed on-site during the inspection by Dr. Sogonov. When certain tests can’t be performed on site, InSitu collaborates with trusted third-party laboratories.

InSitu manages each case by hand and conducts only one inspection at a time, ensuring focused attention and quality. This sets them apart from most other testing services.

GWCIM and InSitu collaborate to help patients assess the condition of their home when CIRS and mold toxicity are suspected. This partnership has been a valuable resource for our patients in the Washington, D.C. area for over 15 years. Our patients reach InSitu and Dr. Sogonov directly to schedule the Eco Assessment.