Environmental toxicology of environmental pollutants

The Lehmler laboratory studies the biotransformation of environmental pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides. Our long-term goal is to understand the link between environmentally relevant chemicals and adverse health effects, in particular neurodevelopmental disorders and metabolic syndrome. We utilize analytical chemistry tools to measure levels of environmental pollutants and their biotransformation products in biological samples from enzyme assays, cell culture experiments, and animal studies. These studies are a crucial component of risk assessment.

You will work alongside a “senior” member of my laboratory and learn important laboratory skills such as how to extract compounds from biological samples and how to utilize a gas chromatograph. You will also be given the opportunity to analyze, interpret, and present your data, and to participate in a “systematic review” of the literature. All undergraduate student in the Lehmler laboratory are strongly encouraged to present their research at least at an undergraduate research conference (e.g., FURF or SURF).

You are dependable, have attention to detail, and are capable of working independently. Because the Lehmler lab is located at the UI Research Park directly on the UI Research Park Cambus route, you should be able to dedicate approximately 4 h of continuous time, two to three days a week, to the research project.