Aquatic chemistry and ecotoxicology

Group Leader: Stuart Simpson
Main location: Lucas Heights, Sydney

This group focuses on the development and application of state-of-the-art chemical and ecotoxicological techniques which allow improved assessment of the risks posed by contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. This group has strong capabilities in the area of environmental analytical chemistry and ecotoxicology.

Our capabilities

The group has expertise in the following areas:

• Ultratrace analysis of trace metals in waters, sediment and biota. Speciation and bioavailability of contaminants in aquatic systems
• Aquatic ecotoxicology including the development of novel bioassays
• Microbiology focussing on microbial processes and the rapid detection of microorganisms in sediment and water environments
• Sediment chemistry, biology, ecotoxicology and ecology 
• Environmental assessment of water and sediment quality in association with historic or active industrial activities, including mining operations

The group is currently developing new capabilities in the area of ecogenomics in collaboration with CSIRO Entomology.

The group is equipped with state-of-the-art analytical facilities for the determination of trace elements including a purpose-built clean room. Multi-elemental analysis facilities include GFAAS, ICP-AES, ICP-MS and electrochemical analysis. Extensive water and sediment ecotoxicology facilities include a purpose-built laboratory suite for the development of sediment bioassays, microscopy and flow cytometry.

Our relationships

The group has strong relationships with regulatory bodies, R&D corporations, Federal and State Government natural resource management agencies, Catchment water management boards, Water authorities (Australian and International), and universities (Australian and International). We also have strong links with industry.

Related Links

• Centre for Environmental Contaminants Research (CECR)
• Aquatic Ecotoxicology Fact Sheet (PDF, 159 kB)
• Sediment Quality Assessment Fact Sheet (PDF, 283 kB)
• Water Quality Assessment Fact Sheet (PDF, 236 kB)
• Handbook for Sediment Quality Assessment (PDF, 2 MB)