Atoms, Nanoparticles, and Aggregates: Using Cohort Learning Models to Galvanize Undergraduate Research

The Institute of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry’s mission is to support academic programs and research in the field of environmental toxicology and chemistry for the benefit of undergraduate and graduate students, visiting scholars, and grant-funding-entities. The aim of the institute is to serve as a regional partner and national leader in environmental toxicology and chemistry research and education. 

In his presentation, Montaño will describe how the cohort learning model employed in the IETC and other university departments has helped direct much of his research into nanoscale processes and behavior. He will examine how student-led projects have led to a cascade of opportunities in advancing a vibrant and productive research culture studying a wide array of materials from nanoplastics, nanopesticides, and polymer additives.

About the Speaker

Manuel Montaño
Prof. Manuel David Montaño
WWU Institute of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Advanced Materials Science and Engineering Center

Prof. Manuel David Montaño has been an associate professor in the Environmental Studies Department at Western Washington University since the Winter of 2019. He earned his BSc in Chemistry and PhD in Applied Chemistry from the Colorado School of Mines. Upon completion of two postdoctoral studies at Duke University and the University of Vienna, he was hired at WWU as an assistant professor and has built a research program around the study of nanogeochemical behavior and the fate and transport of emerging contaminants. He is also an affiliate to the Institute of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, and supports the students and curriculum of the toxicology emphasis at Western.

Environmental Speaker Series

The Environmental Speaker Series is hosted by the College of the Environment at Western Washington University.

The Series is free and open to the public. Talks are held each Thursday at 4:30 pm in Academic Instructional Center West room 204 - AW-204. Talks will also be streamed via Zoom. Register with The Foundation for WWU & Alumni for the zoom link. Parking is available in lot C.

Learn more about the Environmental Speaker Series

Email Alumni@wwu.edu to be added to a mailing list to hear about upcoming events.