Environmental Sciences - Overview

Dr. Terry L. Wade, Deputy Director, Environmental Sciences
Dr. José Sericano, Associate Research Scientist
Dr. Guy Denoux, Lab Manager
Steve Sweet, Research Associate

Environmental Sciences (ES), as one of the Geochemical and Environmental Research Group's (GERG) areas of research focus, conducts applied research in a wide range of topics. The highly experienced staff of more than 30 research scientists, research associates, technicians, graduate students and student workers support a diverse portfolio of research projects. The educational experience provided by ES emphasizes the value of teamwork, encourages the development of leadership skills, and promotes the ethical conduct and use of science.

ES strives to better understand the changes occurring across our planet as a consequence of human interactions with the environment. The group's research monitors the rate of environmental change, predicts future change, and aids in protecting and sustaining the environment for future generations. ES maintains a state-of-the-art laboratory of specialized instrumentation. The ES disseminates information to government and industry stakeholders and clients and provides the expertise to interpret the results. Cutting edge research is encouraged through continuous improvement of instrumental sophistication, methods, and efficiency. Training and quality are cornerstones of all laboratory operations.

Research interests in ES include assessment of the current status and future trends in environmental contaminants. ES conducts national and international environmental monitoring programs, and improves and develops analytical methodologies to meet emerging needs for the detection of environmental contaminants. ES projects assess the sources, sinks, and bioavailability of a variety of important environmental contaminants.