About the Program

• Research Goals
• Strategic Plan
• Other Documents

Contaminant Biology Program Research Goals

Toxicology and Chemistry - Determine the sources, fate, exposure and effects of environmental contaminants. Develop and standardize biomarkers and other methods for molecular biology, chemical analysis and toxicology.

• Areas of Special Emphasis: emerging chemicals, toxicological techniques, toxic responses of species underrepresented in toxicological literature and species of special concern.

Contaminated Habitats - Develop the scientific basis for assessment, restoration and monitoring of habitats that are contaminated by mining, agriculture, urban wastewater, industry, and chemical control agents. Develop the toxicological basis to remediate and prevent contamination by providing information on the risk of environmental contaminants, biological controls, and nontarget effects of chemicals used against invasive species, fire, and other hazards.

• Areas of Special Emphasis: hazardous waste sites, energy and energy development activities and mercury.

Integration of Ecological Stressors - Improve the scientific basis for evaluating and integrating the effects of multiple stressors, stressors at multiple levels of biological organization or at multiple temporal and spatial scales.

• Area of Special Emphasis: establish demonstration sites to link ecological models, biomarker responses and toxicological tests in collaboration with other disciplines.