HAS Faculty Candidate
When
Where
Available in person in Harshbarger 110 or via zoom (see email link)
Abstract
Thousands of species of contaminants have been introduced to the environment through commercial and industrial activities. These include forever chemicals (e.g., per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)), agrochemicals (e.g., pesticides, nutrients and veterinary drugs) and many other industrial contaminants. Identifying and quantifying these pollutants, understanding their fate and transport in the environment, as well as developing effective treatment technologies is essential for achieving environmental sustainability and protecting our natural resources. In this seminar, findings from past and ongoing research will be presented, highlighting contributions to the detection, treatment, and fate and transport of emerging contaminants. Key contaminants of concern, such as halogenated chemicals (e.g., PFAS, PAHs), trace metals, and industrial pollutants (e.g., 1,4-dioxane), will be discussed. A particular emphasis will also be placed on innovative methodologies that provide new insights into the detection and treatment of these pollutants. In addition, a vision for future research on emerging contaminants in the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences (HAS) will be outlined, focusing on potential remediation strategies for contaminants in water, air, and soil. The approach will integrate traditional laboratory techniques, mathematical modeling, and advanced methodologies powered by data driven science to address challenges related to emerging contaminants. The talk will conclude with a discussion of collaborative opportunities in research areas such as water and air quality, analytical chemistry, microbiology, and biogeochemistry within the University of Arizona’s expansive infrastructure.
Bio
Fuhar is currently a postdoctoral scholar at the University of California Berkeley investigating practical solutions to address the global challenge of drinking water scarcity. Fuhar’s doctoral research focused on the use of anionic ion exchange resins to target toxic per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and disinfection by-products (DBPs), two of the most common and harmful forms of contamination. At Berkeley, his research focuses on the detection, treatment and transformation of PFAS in the environment. In particular, he is examining the fate and transport of PFAS and its precursor compounds by augmenting the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay. Beyond his research contributions to environmental remediation, Fuhar is committed to the protection of wildlife and natural resources. He is passionate about translating complex research into practical solutions for environmental practitioners. He has received prestigious awards such as the Vanier Scholarship and the Banting and NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship offers. He has also played a pivotal leadership role in the Canada-India Network of Centers of Excellence (IC-IMPACTS). He also serves as a board member of UC Berkeley’s Postdoctoral Entrepreneurial Program, where he enjoys mentoring and supporting startups focused on environmental innovation.