Project is to test multiple beds of biosolids, plants and wastewater for multiple contaminants including emergent contaminants of interest. We are looking for analysis & interpretation of tests in a field mycoremediation project which is looking at the fate of various contaminants. Baseline testing needs to be conducted on composted biosolids, lagoon sludge & wastewater, and first-results testing done on mushrooms grown in biosolids. We are conducting cutting-edge research in the development of natural methods for processing wastewater and biosolids to remove all contaminants and toxins, beginning with the use of mushrooms to destroy harmful bacteria in solids. Samples for the composted biosolids, lagoon sludge, and wastewater are available indefinitely; samples of mushrooms grown in biosolids are available now until ~October, and samples for myco-remediated biosolids will be available anytime after September. Any or all of those samples can be included in project.

The student will be expected to test, provide analysis, and interpret results for various samples. The expectations will be customized to the student's skills/experience and lab capabilities.

The student will be given an orientation to the research, testing that has been done to date, and samples, as well as guidance to similar research done elsewhere, and access to some of the other academic researchers in the field. They will also be given a list of relevant book/journal articles which they may choose to read if they are interested in increasing their expertise in mycoremediation, bioremediation, wastewater processing, and/or research regarding the lifecycle fate of contaminants. They will have access to the project manager as well as to outside experts but will be expected to be self-motivated in solving problems and thoughtful in using others' time responsibly.