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PhD Dissertation Defense - Environmental Science & Policy

Oct 27, 2025, 1:00 - 3:00 PM

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Register in advance to join by Zoom here: https://tinyurl.com/5xnd9pw4

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Oct 27, 2025, 3:00 - 4:00 PM

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PhD Dissertation Defense - Environmental Science & Policy

Oct 27, 2025, 1:00 - 3:00 PM

Virtual on Zoom.
Register in advance to join by Zoom here: https://tinyurl.com/5xnd9pw4

PhD Dissertation
Department of Environmental Science and Policy
College of Science
George Mason University

 

Candidate: Tabitha King
Defense Date and Time: Monday,October 27, 2025 (1:00 PM ET)
Defense Location: Virtual on Zoom
Title: The Ecological and Human Health Risk of PFAS in the Potomac River

Dissertation Director: T. Reid Nelson
Committee: Thomas Huff, Amy Fowler, Greg Foster

 

ABSTRACT

 

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of synthetic chemicals used in firefighting foam and nonstick cookware. PFAS are widespread and linked to negative health effects in aquatic organisms and humans. This dissertation investigated ways to monitor PFAS contamination in the tidal freshwater Potomac River by creating a micro-extraction method and using banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanus) as biomonitors. PFAS bioaccumulation was examined in the muscle, liver, and eggs of northern snakehead (Channa argus). Finally, the presumed risk of current environmental concentrations was examined for aquatic organisms and humans. Preliminary advisories were created for fish consumption and surface water recreation.

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