Superfund Research Program

Through presentations and more than 200 poster displays, experts shared innovative research approaches involving geospatial modeling, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, research translation, and community engagement. (Photo courtesy of Wayne State)

The annual grant recipient meeting of the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP), held Dec. 4-6 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, showcased how collaborative research can accelerate scientific discovery to protect the health of communities exposed to harmful contaminants. SRP-funded researchers and trainees — representing 70 institutions across the U.S. — joined NIEHS staff, community partners, and Tribal leaders to discuss research advances related to heavy metals, ubiquitous chemicals called PFAS, prenatal exposures, and more.

Creating and nurturing respectful partnerships with community members, particularly Native Americans grappling with contamination from uranium mining waste or arsenic in drinking water supplies, was a common theme throughout the meeting. SRP grant recipients also shared important progress in discovering mechanisms by which exposure to contaminants can lead to disease.

To learn more, see the NIEHS Environmental Factor Newsletter.