Bio
Dr. Jon Thompson is a distinguished professor of analytical chemistry at Texas Tech University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. With over two decades of experience in academia, Dr. Thompson has mentored more than 10 graduate students to advanced degrees and published over 80 peer-reviewed manuscripts. Their research is at the forefront of analytical chemistry, focusing on the innovative application of mass spectrometry combined with machine learning techniques to advance medical diagnostics. Furthermore, Dr. Thompson has conducted extensive research on atmospheric particulates and aerosols, investigating their chemical composition, optical properties, sources, and impacts on both human health and the environment. Their work has led to significant insights into the role of these particles in air quality and climate change and has been instrumental in developing new methodologies for the detection and analysis of airborne pollutants. Dr. Thompson's research has been widely recognized, garnering grants and collaborations with leading institutions in the field. In addition to a robust teaching and research career, Dr. Thompson plays a pivotal role in faculty development, performance reviews, and serving as a key communication conduit between faculty and upper administration at the university.

Talk
The Health Effect of Dust Storm Particles

Bio
Ardon-Dreyer’s research group studies aerosol–cloud interactions and the effect that aerosols have on climate, the environment and our health. Her research combines field and laboratory work to investigate the interaction between humans, health, and climate, exploring human effects on climate with an emphasis on cloud formation and precipitation processes, and vice versa, namely, how climate may affect our lives in the short and long term.

Talk
Lung Surfactant Inhibition and Cytotoxicity Over Increasing Dry Particle Aerosol Dose Delivered at the Air–Liquid Interface

Bio
Dr. Christie Sayes’s primary research area of interest is environmental health and safety. Currently, she focuses on exposure characterization along the product value chain. She has more than a decade of experience in the fields of nanotechnology and nanotoxicology and has authored numerous publications, including original research, invited reviews and book chapters. The goal of the research performed in her laboratory is to investigate the fate, transformation, and biological effects of individual particles and particle systems. Her research group addresses several fundamental issues pertaining to the development of safe and effective formulations in biological and environmental applications. These issues include material characterization, exposure kinetics, hazard identification and communication, and mechanistic and molecular analyses.