Understanding the impact of PFAS in water systems and the environment

Research Project 3: Investigating PFAS across water reclamation facilities and in environmental media

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10939228

This study is looking into harmful chemicals called PFAS in wastewater and groundwater to find better ways to measure them and help protect communities, especially those using recycled water for drinking, from exposure to these pollutants.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10939228 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the presence and effects of PFAS, a group of harmful chemicals, in wastewater and urban groundwater systems. It aims to develop new methods for quantifying PFAS without relying on traditional analytical standards, which can be challenging due to the complexity of environmental samples. The project will also create predictive models to identify communities at risk of PFAS exposure, particularly in areas where recycled water is used for drinking. By focusing on equitable strategies, the research seeks to minimize human exposure to these contaminants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in urban areas with known PFAS contamination in their water supply.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in areas affected by PFAS contamination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety of drinking water by better understanding and managing PFAS contamination.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying and managing environmental contaminants, but the specific approach to PFAS quantification in this study is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.