Dr Omagamre is an environmental toxicologist with a strong foundation in chemistry that he has leveraged to advance innovative research in toxicology. His work centers on understanding the environmental distribution, accumulation, and biological impacts of PFAS, using plant, insect, and microbial models to probe both ecological risks and remediation opportunities. In addition to research, Wayne is passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists. His lab maintains active collaborations with colleagues at UMCES, the University of Florida, and North Dakota State University, pursuing projects that span PFAS impacts from landfills to estuarine systems, fostering broad and dynamic research partnerships.

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 was an integral member of the EnviToxIn Lab, where he developed and optimized bioassay protocols and carefully monitored plant and insect phenotypes in greenhouse studies. His meticulous work and dedication greatly advanced our PFAS research. Sunday has now begun his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, and we are excited to see his continued success.

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.