2012 ERIE-REU Projects

Optimizing phytoremediation techniques for remediation of systems contaminated with heavy metal

Advisor: Dr. Mary Bisson  (Biological Sciences)
Other Mentors: Dr. Diana Aga and David Stewart (Chemistry)
Primary Activities: Culturing algae; extracting and assaying metals; measurement of in situ accumulation

Project Summary:Previous experiments have determined that certain large (macrophytic) algae will concentrate heavy metals from the environment.  We plan to optimize the ability to take up cadmium into harvestable tissues by utilizing local populations and by possibly amending the substrate.  The project will involve collecting and culturing local Charophyte algae and examining their ability to tolerate and concentrate cadmium.  We will also look at the uptake of nanoparticles, particularly Ag nanoparticles which are widely used and may occur in treated wastewater.

Skills/Courses Recommended: Basic knowledge of biology and chemistry

Anticipated Conference Presentation(s): American Phycological Society; American Society of Plant Biologists; Green remediation.