University at Buffalo invests $15 million in interdisciplinary institute

May 8, 2014 |

In New York state, the University at Buffalo’s new interdisciplinary research initiative RENEW (Research and Education in eNergy, Environment and Water) promises to tackle the most difficult and pressing issues that society faces in trying to create a more sustainable world. UB has dedicated up to $15 million over the next five years, with a goal to hire 20 new faculty members who have expertise in aquatic ecology, pollution law, renewable energy, behavioral economics, environmental planning, community health and other areas.

Berat Z. Haznedaroglu, assistant professor of environmental engineering, and his students are working to fix the problem in Lake Erie by developing biological control mechanisms against harmful algae blooms that limit the occurrence of toxic compounds.

Additionally, Haznedaroglu studies the nutritional capacity of certain algae species, as well as their suitability to be used as a biofuel feedstock. He also conducts research into food sustainability and safety; for example, he studies how pathogens like salmonella behave in water and soil matrices.

Category: Research

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