Wayne is a dedicated scientist with a strong foundation in chemistry, which he has successfully leveraged to transition into the field of toxicology. His current research focuses on developing and testing hypotheses related to the environmental distribution and impacts of PFAS, using plant and insect models as investigative systems. Beyond his research, Wayne is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists. He co-advises Michella, Fariba, and Isabella in collaboration with Dr. Joe Pitula, the Director of Research at UMES, fostering a supportive and dynamic academic environment.

Michella is the kind of Ph.D. student every lab dreams of having! She is forward-thinking, creative, and highly driven in her research endeavors. Her project focuses on investigating PFAS in the Chesapeake and Maryland Coastal Bays, with a particular emphasis on developing protocols to explore the relationship between PFAS hemolymph concentrations and infection rates in Blue Crabs. Demonstrating exceptional initiative, Michella successfully secured funding to study the impact of seasonal tourism on PFAS burdens in the coastal bays around Ocean City, MD. Her determination and proactive approach make her an invaluable asset to the team.

Fariba joined our lab in the winter of 2025, bringing valuable experience in plant research. She will be continuing our ongoing soybean-PFAS project, focusing on the impact of different exposure pathways. Her investigation will examine whether PFAS uptake and phenotypic effects differ based on the type of exposure: irrigation, soil, or a combination of both. Fariba’s contributions are expected to provide critical insights into how PFAS exposure pathways influence plant health and development.

Isabella is a passionate scientist who brings her expertise in  analytical chemistry and experience working with aquatic insects to our lab. She is currently leading a groundbreaking project investigating the potential of mosquitoes as biomonitors for environmental PFAS. Her research seeks to answer critical questions: Do mosquitoes absorb PFAS from water during their developmental stages? Do they take up PFAS from blood meals? If so, what types of PFAS? Isabella is deeply immersed in uncovering the answers to these critical questions, driving innovation and insight in this emerging area of study.

Sunday has been an integral part of our lab's daily operations, contributing significantly to its success. He excels at developing and optimizing protocols for bioassays while meticulously monitoring the phenotypes of experimental plants and insects in the greenhouse. His dedication and expertise have made him an invaluable asset to our team. While we will greatly miss his presence, we look forward to cherishing the remaining months he spends with us before he embarks on his Ph.D. journey outside our lab.

Nigel, an undergraduate majoring in Accounting & Agribusiness, is part of the Experiential Learning for Undergraduates (ELU) Program in our lab. Despite his business background, he has a strong interest in science and values the hands-on experience he is gaining in environmental research. He is working with his ELU team to optimize a biomaterial and an adsoprtion protocol for enhanced PFAS binding in water purification. Through this project, he is enhancing his skills in software application, teamwork, and communication—key competencies for his future career. Nigel aspires to own a tax firm, where he hopes to integrate business acumen with sustainability and community impact.

Niesha a Biology Pre-Med major, is part of the Experiential Learning for Undergraduates (ELU) Program in our lab. She is involved in developing biomaterials for PFAS water filtration, gaining hands-on research experience that connects environmental health to medicine. This project enhances her problem-solving, teamwork, and analytical skills—critical for medical school. Observing real-time research deepens her understanding of contaminants’ health impacts, reinforcing her passion for helping others through medicine. As she prepares to become a pediatrician, this experience strengthens her foundation in preventative medicine, equipping her to address environmental factors affecting child health and community well-being.

Kayla "Kace" a Biology Pre-Med major, is part of the Experiential Learning for Undergraduates (ELU) Program in our lab, where she is contributing to a project developing biomaterials for PFAS water filtration. Her interest in cause-and-effect relationships, particularly in human cognition, aligns with studying environmental contaminants and their neurological impacts. This research strengthens her collaboration, presentation, and data analysis skills—essential for medical school and a future in neurology. By integrating research, business, and content creation, Kayla aims to bridge neuroscience, public education, and innovation, using her expertise to advance understanding and solutions for environmental and neurological health challenges.

Ryann is a Biology Pre-Med major, is part of the Experiential Learning for Undergraduates (ELU) Program in our lab, contributing to research on biomaterials for PFAS water filtration. Her passion for science and the human body fuels her goal of becoming a trauma surgeon. ELU provides hands-on experience with research tools, expanding her understanding beyond the classroom. This opportunity strengthens her technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, preparing her for medical school. By working on environmental health research, Ryann gains a multidisciplinary perspective that will enhance her ability to address complex medical challenges in her future surgical career.