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PhD Dissertation Proposal Defense - Environmental Science & Policy

Apr 15, 2024, 2:00 - 4:00 PM

Virtual on Zoom - contact espgrad@gmu.edu for Zoom meeting info

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

 

Candidate: Tabitha King
Defense Date and Time: April 15, 2024 at 2:00pm
Defense Location: Virtually on Zoom 
Title: The Ecological and Human Health Risk of PFAS in the Potomac River 

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

 

ABSTRACT

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of over 12,000 compounds used in industrial and household products. PFAS are widespread, persistent, and linked to negative health effects in humans and wildlife. Regulatory attention has been focused on drinking water, but studies have shown significant PFAS bioaccumulation in fishes. Local anglers who rely on self-caught fish for food security have a substantially higher risk of PFAS exposure. This dissertation investigates the fish consumption behavior of local anglers, the bioaccumulation of PFAS in aquatic food webs, and the human health risk associated with eating Potomac River game fishes.

* The programs and services offered by George Mason University are open to all who seek them. George Mason does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic national origin (including shared ancestry and/or ethnic characteristics), sex, disability, military status (including veteran status), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, pregnancy status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. After an initial review of its policies and practices, the university affirms its commitment to meet all federal mandates as articulated in federal law, as well as recent executive orders and federal agency directives.