This research investigates how the shape, size, and surface chemistry of carbon nanomaterials influence their ability to remove contaminants from complex wastewater. By systematically testing nanomaterial variations against pollutants such as microplastics and petroleum derivatives, it aims to establish design rules that enable more effective, real-world water treatment technologies.

This research uses freshwater mussels as bioindicators to investigate water quality in Darby Creek. Community science data revealed links between elevated chloride pollution, likely from road salt, and declining mussel populations. The discovery of a healthy mussel population highlights both the importance of local monitoring and opportunities for targeted watershed restoration.

This research develops adaptable machine learning methods for wildlife monitoring using camera trap images. By clustering visually similar animal images, the system dramatically reduces the amount of manual labeling required while maintaining accuracy. The approach could enable faster, large-scale biodiversity monitoring critical for protecting endangered species worldwide.

This research investigates the formation and chemical composition of atmospheric aerosol particles, particularly secondary organic aerosols formed through oxidation of organic gases. Using a large controlled atmospheric chamber, the work studies how environmental conditions influence aerosol chemistry, improving understanding of air pollution, climate impacts, cloud formation, and human health effects.

This research improves climate prediction models by developing advanced computational methods for simulating cloud microphysics. By tracking more detailed information about cloud droplets and aerosol interactions, the work enhances understanding of how clouds influence Earth’s energy balance, rainfall, and climate change, helping reduce uncertainty in long-term global climate projections.

This research develops a high-resolution chemical method for analyzing tree rings to reconstruct past climates and ecosystem responses. By measuring atomic-scale chemical variations within cellulose molecules, the study separates environmental signals from biological responses, enabling more detailed understanding of historical climate change, plant physiology, and long-term ecosystem adaptation.

This research develops biodegradable “living” water filters grown from kombucha cellulose membranes. Unlike conventional plastic filters, these biofilters can self-defend against harmful microbes and self-repair when damaged. The work aims to create affordable, sustainable, and effective water filtration systems that reduce plastic waste while improving access to clean drinking water.