Our laboratory is studying the molecular, biochemical, organismal and ecological impacts of emerging contaminants on environmental and human heath while understanding the toxicological connections between people and their environment.
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Gavin Dehnert – Emerging Contaminant Scientist
Bio: I went to undergraduate school at the University of Miami (FL) where I received a B.S. in marine science and biology. Following my undergraduate degree, I went to University of Wisconsin-Madison where I received my Ph.D. in integrative biology with a focus on aquatic toxicology. Outside of research I enjoy pretty much anything outdoors, from hiking to triathlons.
Email: dehnert2@aqua.wisc.edu
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Serena George – Ph.D. Student
Project: My PhD project will focus on the immunological effects of 2,4-D on fathead minnows. I also have some side projects on PFAS bioaccumulation and on the application of wildlife disease surveillance as a component of a One Health system. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, writing for my faith and science blog, and rock climbing.
Bio: I am a DVM/PhD student passionate about Planetary Health and conservation medicine. I chose to enter the field of aquatic toxicology because of its intersection with ecosystem conservation and environmental justice.
Email: sgeorge5@wisc.edu
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Brian Anton – Master’s Student
Project: I am investigating the effects of herbicide exposure on the reproductive health of nontarget fish species. In particular, I am identifying changes in the transcription of genes involved in androgen synthesis and metabolism in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). I hope to better explain the mechanism by which these herbicides act as endocrine disrupters and understand the ecological significance of such exposure in native Great Lakes fish species.
Bio: I am a dual DVM/MS student interested in aquatic species medicine and toxicology. My hobbies include scuba, kiteboarding and alpine skiing. I also enjoy spending time with my lizard companion, Thistle.
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Emma Brennen
Bio: I am majoring in environmental studies and geography with a focus on people and the environment. I have always enjoyed spending time outside in my free time, and my favorite outdoor activities are currently hiking, birding, skiing and cycling. Here’s to a safe, fun, productive, year!
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Cat Smith
Bio: I am a sophomore studying biology and Spanish at UW-Madison and I hope to go into the conservation field someday. In my free time I love to be outside; some of my favorite outdoor activities are hiking, riding my bike, swimming, and laying in my hammock by the lake. In the cold Wisconsin winters, sometimes I opt for staying in, watching Netflix and spending time with friends.
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Elle Krellwitz
Bio: I am a junior at UW-Madison. I discovered my passion for wildlife after spending time in northern Wisconsin, which led me to pursue a major in wildlife ecology. After conducting a research project on the impacts of toxicants on fathead minnows, I gained a deeper interest in aquatic ecosystems and hope to focus my studies on freshwater ecology.
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Katie Westerbeke
I am a sophomore majoring in biology with a certificate in environmental studies. I am interested in conservation and plan on pursuing a career in researching environmental health. In my spare time I enjoy organizing events for the Women in Science and Engineering community and exploring new places on campus.
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Cole Wilson
Bio: My name is Cole (he/him) and I’m from Milwaukee. I am a senior studying wildlife ecology. My particular areas of interest are toxicology and herpetology. Outside of class I enjoy running, biking and birding in and around Madison.
Recent Publications:
Anton, B., Dehnert, G., Karasov, W. (2021). Subchronic impacts of 2,4-D herbicide Weedestroy®AM40 on
associative learning in juvenile yellow perch (Perca flavescens). Aquatic Toxicology, 237; DIO:10.1016/j.aqutox.2021.105909
Dehnert, G., Freitas, M. B., Barry, T. P., Sharma, P., & Karasov, W. (2020). Impacts of subchronic exposure to a commercial 2,4-D herbicide on developmental stages of multiple freshwater fish species. Chemosphere, 263; DOI:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127638
Dehnert, G., Freitas, M. B., DeQuattro, Z.A., Barry, T. P., & Karasov, W. (2018). Effects of low, subchronic exposure of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and commercial 2,4-D formulations on early life stages of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas). Journal of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 37, 2550-2559; DOI: 10.1002/etc.4209.
Dehnert, G., Karasov, W., & Wolman, M. (2019). 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid containing herbicide impairs essential visually guided behaviors of larval fish. Aquatic Toxicology, 209:1-12; DOI:10.1016/j.aquatox.2019.01.015
Dehnert, G., Freitas, M. B., DeQuattro, Z.A., Barry, T. P., & Karasov, W. (2018). Response Letter: Effects of low, subchronic exposure of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and commercial 2,4-D formulations on early life stages of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas). Journal of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 38, 1382-1385; DOI: 10.1002/etc.4426