Innovation Networking Session on PFAS and Other Emerging Contaminants

Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018 (new date)
Fetzer Center, Room 2020  
3:30 to 7 p.m.

Image of water

Recently, polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were found in the soil, groundwater, or surface water of more than 30 sites in 15 communities across the State of Michigan. Additional emerging environmental contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and endocrine disrupting compounds have also found their way into the environment in Michigan and beyond. Such contaminants continue to pose serious risks to human health and the environment. Thus, there is an urgent need to understand their impact.  

This innovation networking session on PFAS and emerging contaminants, aims to bring together WMU researchers who are interested in learning about ongoing research work in this field, forging collaborations across disciplines, and identifying funding opportunities.  

Who should attend

 All WMU researchers who are interested in learning about funding opportunities and meeting potential collaborators are invited to attend.  

Why attend

  • Network with faculty engaged in research in the area of PFAS and other emerging contaminants
  • Learn about funding available for environmental contaminates research 
  • Meet potential collaborators across disciplines

Tentative Schedule

3:30 to 4 p.m.Registration
4 to 4:10 p.m.Opening Remarks
4:10 to 4:40 p.m.Ms. Sara Pearson — Environmental Perspectives of Emerging Contaminants
4:40 to 6:10 p.m.Mr. John Yellich — Where Will All the Concern for PFAS Take Michigan Scientists and Where Does it Start?
Dr. Matt Reeves — PFAS Plume Characterization and Monitoring
Dr. Elke Schoffers — From Environmental Contaminants to Health to Implicit Bias: Meet Your Brain
Dr. Ed Martini — Agent Orange, Dioxin and the Politics of Uncertainty
Dr. Jian Yao — The Effects of PFAS Treatment on Plant Growth and Development
6:10 to 6:20 p.m.Break
6:20 to 7 p.m.Networking and funding opportunities

Food and beverages will be provided.  

Contact Denise Wheatley with questions.

Please register no later than Nov. 12

Register