Research

Numerous chemicals of anthropogenic origin contaminate terrestrial and aquatic environments. The research at Department of Environmental Toxicology aims to determine how these pollutants interact with cellular functions and give rise to long-lasting adverse health effects in humans and wildlife. We are particularly interested in toxic effects that target different hormone systems, the reproductive system and the early brain development. Enzyme-catalyzed activation of chemicals in target cells and tissues and receptor-mediated responses from exposure to chemicals are important areas of research with the goal to elucidate modes of action by pollutants. We study interaction of chemicals with molecular targets in cell and tissue cultures and in various animal models in fish, amphibia, birds and mammals.

Education

Our department is responsible for running the master program in Biology with specialization in Environmental Toxicology. The program covers effects of chemicals in humans and wildlife at different levels of biological organization, from molecular effects at the cellular level, via physiological effects on cells, organs and whole organisms to consequences at population and ecosystem levels. Substantial applied aspects within fields such as environmental and human health risk assessment of chemicals and environmental impact assessment are given. The program gives a good background for professional work related to environmental pollution and sustainable development and also for PhD-studies in Environmental Toxicology and related disciplines.

For details about the program visit 

http://www.ibg.uu.se/Master/MSc_in_Biology/Environmental_Toxicology