Investigators and Program Directors
Kenneth M. Aldous
Research Scientist, Wadsworth Center, Environmental Biology
Associate Professor, School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences
Ph.D., Imperial College, London University (1970)
Postdoctoral training: Albany Medical College/NYS Dept. of
Health
E-mail: aldous@wadsworth.org
Research Interests
Research interests include laboratory automation and development of new analytical instrumentation, measurement of trace compounds in the environment and development of sensitive methods for identifying biomarkers of exposure to environmental pollutants.
Current work is addressing the detection of biomarkers for chronic exposure to ambient air levels of volatile compounds and bioaerosols. In a recent study, funded by the USEPA, the determination of tetrachloroethene in participants' blood and breath and measurement of urinary metabolites have been developed to assess the impact of dry cleaning facilities on occupants of adjacent residences.
High resolution mass spectrometry is applied to the analysis of several classes of organic pollutants found in air, soil, water and biological matrices. Development of trace analytical methods for chlorinated dioxins, dibenzofurans PCBs and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons as well as other target compounds has allowed research in fate and transport of these compounds.
Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention a prototype portable instrument for the determination of lead in blood obtained from a fingerstick blood drop has been developed. This instrument measures the blood lead concentration by electrothermal generation of lead atoms from the blood sample which are detected by atomic absorption spectrometry. A commercial instrument is being prepared for clinical trials as a portable screening instrument to detect childhood lead poisoning.
Contact Information
Phone: (518) 473-0030
Fax: (518) 473-2895
E-mail: aldous@wadsworth.org