Mechanisms for Microplastics Remediation in Wastewater (Xing Lab) - FULL

Our competitive Research Intensives program places high-achieving high school students in professional working labs alongside distinguished faculty, graduate and undergraduate students.

Research Intensive in the Mechanisms for Microplastics Remediation in Wastewater Lab (Xing Lab)

Plastic pollution in wastewater and sewage sludge poses significant environmental and agricultural challenges, especially as these waste streams are increasingly reused for irrigation and land application. This project explores how microplastics and nanoplastics interact with a naturally sourced filter material to improve their removal before these waste products undergo further treatment. By studying the sorption mechanisms under natural conditions, we aim to optimize filtration strategies for wastewater treatment. Understanding these molecular interactions and transformation processes will contribute to developing more effective and sustainable remediation strategies, helping to mitigate the long-term impacts of plastic pollution on the environment.

Students can be expected to gain hands-on experience in the lab working with microplastics and nanoplastics to reduce wastewater pollution. They shall learn about the challenges and concerns of microplastics by working on novel remediation strategies to overcome this contamination and provide long-term solutions to improve environmental health.

The Xing Lab can host 2 students. Learn more.

Program Overview

During this program, high school students will assist UMass faculty and graduate students in research labs while learning about research methodologies and contributing to ongoing research studies. Each student will create and present a research poster to faculty, fellow students, friends and family at a poster session at the end of the program.

Students will come away with an introduction to the field of Environmental & Soil Chemistry, firsthand experience with university-level research, and an understanding of opportunities that exist for undergraduate students at a major R1 university such as UMass Amherst.

Applications

For all Research Intensives applications: In your statement of interest, please include 3 lab choices from our list of available labs along with a brief explanation of your interest in each one.

This course is offered at the UMass Amherst campus as a residential program. Local students may apply to attend as a commuter.