Supporting Undergrad Research in Environmental Toxicology at WWU

Greetings from Ruth and Wayne, your resident aquatic toxicologist and risk assessor at Western Washington University. Over the years we’ve worked with many amazing undergraduate students who are now making a difference in the world.  It’s not only the knowledge, critical thinking skills, and technical writing that we taught students in the classroom, but the other experiences our students had that led them to careers where they make that difference.  PNW-SETAC conferences, PNWIS-AWMA Environmental Challenges, and research with Ruth or Wayne are some of the crucial student experiences in the environmental toxicology emphasis at WWU.

Over the years, research has become more challenging.  Internal support and external funding are more limited, and curriculum changes mean students don’t have to do 10 credits of thesis/project/internship (the new requirement is 5 credits).  Money raised through this project will be used to support our undergraduates doing independent research.  It will pay for lab supplies, stipends, and travel to conferences to present their work.  You are all part of a legacy that we want to ensure continues.