Environmental toxicology

The environment may be contaminated with different types of chemicals. Historically, most research has focused on contaminated sites while locations with relatively low level of contamination have received little attention. Based on recent research, evidence is building that even such low levels of contaminants may result in subtle, chronic effects that may be deleterious for the organisms involved. In this theme, effects of low, chronic exposure of organisms to contaminants is studied. Projects focus on the immune system, shortening of telomeres and the occurrence of resistant genes in small mammals. Other topics involve effects of nanomaterials on soil invertebrates, and the occurrence of chemicals in Antarctic organisms (analytical chemistry).