Kristine H Wammer

Biography

Kris Wammer is interested in the chemical and microbiological processes that affect the fate of organic contaminants in the environment.  Students in the Wammer lab are currently involved in several projects, all of which study potential impacts of biologically active organic compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, in natural waters. One current project is focused on understanding the environmental photochemical degradation of steroids; this work is being done together with researchers at the University of Iowa, the University of Nevada Reno, and Duke University. A second project, a collaboration with researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, examines the role dissolved organic matter plays in the photolysis of pesticides and pharmaceuticals in the St. Louis River. Finally, students are studying polycyclic musks, which are used as fragrances in many consumer products.  In particular, we are studying the potential for UV disinfection to remove these molecules from municipal wastewater and their potential impacts on aquatic organisms. This project involves collaborators from Gustavus Adolphus College, University of Minnesota Crookston, and St. Thomas.

Research Interest

chemical and microbiological processes that affect the fate of organic contaminants in the environment.