Environmental Toxicology and Biological Systems

Biography

I am a molecular endocrinologist and aquatic ecotoxicologist with an interest in the effects of endocrine active chemicals on aquatic wildlife. I am also active in research to protect humans from diseases associated with exposure to biological contaminants in freshwater, including legionella (pathogenic bacteria) and schistosomiasis (parasitic disease) - see my grants for more details. I have published over 30 papers that have been collectively cited over 5500 times. I am programme leader for the Masters in Sustainability, Entrepreneurship and Design which aims to provide entrepreneurial students with the skills and mind-set to help build a sustainable future; one that is environmentally responsible and socially inclusive. I teach a number of subjects at Masters level, including Ecology, Sustainability, and Toxicology (Endocrine Disruption). Research Projects: I have a broad background in ecotoxicology research through the use of in vitro and in vivo (mammalian and aquatic) test systems for environmental estrogens, studies into quantitative structure activity relationships of alkylphenolic chemicals, the application of solid-phase extraction techniques for analysing complex environmental samples, and studies into the molecular mechanisms of estrogen receptor action, to name a few. My present research interests include the application of freshwater mollusc species in environmental monitoring and regulatory testing of chemicals, fundamental research on the molecular endocrinology of freshwater molluscs and the effect of pollution on parasite-host interactions. Recent awards involving SMEs and from industry have a strong focus around water quality issues, from the health effects of consuming direct potable reuse water, validation of the efficacy of a novel device to kill pathogenic bacteria in hot water systems, and the development of ballast water treatment systems to prevent the spread of invasive species in aquatic ecosystems.

Research Interest

My research interests can be divided into the following areas: 1. Ecotoxicology: The effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on freshwater wildlife (fish and molluscs), including the effects of chemical pollutants on parasite host interactions. New and emerging contaminants (e.g. microplastics). 2. Animal Welfare and Regulatory Testing: The use of molluscs as replacements to vertebrates in regulatory chemical testing strategies. Includes fundamental biology research. 3. Technological interventions and Health: The prevention and control of pathogenic bacteria (Legionella) in domestic water systems. 4. Neglected Tropical Diseases: Developing novel approaches to control the transmission of schistosomiasis in humans. 6. Fresh water sustainability: The potential health effects of indirect potable reuse water (advanced treatment technologies) being developed to help meet societies’ demand for drinking water.