This $558,203 federal Project Grant awarded by the U.S. Geological Survey under the Assistance to State Water Resources Research Institutes program (CFDA 15.805) supports research at Purdue University to study the bioaccumulation and biotransformation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aquatic environments. Key project activities include:
Integrating microfluidic sensors for rapid PFAS detection, field sampling of biofilms and macroinvertebrates, identifying factors influencing PFAS bioaccumulation and biotransformation, enriching microbial strains for PFAS biotransformation, evaluating metabolic pathways and functional genes related to PFAS breakdown, and engaging underrepresented students through research experiences. Expected outcomes include new electrochemical PFAS sensing methods, identification of key PFAS species and biotransformation processes, and training of women, minority, and undergraduate students. The research aims to generate scientific data to support USGS and other agencies in PFAS monitoring and management decisions, as well as develop bioremediation strategies.