Environmental Biotechnology Research and Application for Groundwater Management

Abstract

Environmental biotechnology can be employed to develop solutions for risk assessment and management of various environmental matrices (e.g., water, soil). For example, bioprospecting novel degradation pathways or development of molecular assays to measure and monitor biological processes can support chemical risk management and treatment at scale. A case study will be highlighted describing lab- and field-scale efforts to evaluate biodegradation of sulfolane in groundwater. Additionally, career insights and perspectives will be shared.

Biography

Trent Key, environmental engineer at ExxonMobil, is focused on advancing science and technology to improve environmental management and sustainability. He is currently researching environmental aspects of carbon capture and storage (CCS) to inform risk assessment and management. Key also currently leading a team focused on human and environmental risks of polymers, plastics, and associated chemistries. Past areas of focus include bioremediation, biodegradation, molecular biological tools, and emerging contaminants (e.g., PFAS).