Kalea Gurfield
My research aims to discover chemicals in the Columbia River that have not yet been characterized in this body of water. Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, I will be quantifying various contaminants including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, dibenzofurans, pesticides, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals—chemical classes that may cause adverse health effects to humans and aquatic life. Specifically, I will be evaluating the influence of built systems—including above and below two dams and a highly industrialized/urbanized Superfund area— on the presence and concentrations of these contaminants. Since I will be sampling the river for a continuous 365 days, my goal is to generate spatial and temporal data to inform aquatic and human toxicological decisions.
I am excited to be able to research such a hugely important resource for so many people and organisms. Being a part of Superfund research also grants me opportunities to collaborate with peers and mentors who share a common goal of wanting to better the health of communities.
I want my research to matter—whether it means that it helps a community gain access to cleaner resources or helps a species grow, I hope that it has an impact on some population. At the end of the day, I want my research to contribute to making some aspect of the world a better and healthier place.
During my undergraduate studies, I joined an environmental analytical chemistry lab that helped expose me to the life of a scientist. I was fortunate enough to inherit my own study where I characterized per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances in reclaimed water. I loved the project because it gave me the opportunity to learn, grow, and report new findings -- and it inspired me to continue pursuing research!
I would like to have a career where I can continue doing environmental chemistry with an emphasis on conservation work.
I love anything that involves being outdoors whether it’s running, hiking, camping, sports…etc!