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DESERT-PFAS
Developing Engagement, Sustainability, Education, Research & Technology
for PFAS in Arizona
––AN INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH ACCELERATOR––
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) present a profound and evolving sustainability challenge. PFAS are in our water, soils, food, consumer products, and even air. In Arizona, where PFAS management decisions intersect with water scarcity, rapid population growth, and diverse communities, we face urgent questions about long-term environmental sustainability, public health, and equitable risk management. Addressing these challenges requires not only technical solutions, but also integrated, interdisciplinary approaches that are responsive to community needs.
Collaborating U of A Colleges & Centers
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- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- College of Science
- College of Engineering
- Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health
- College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences
- College of Fine Arts
- WEST Center
- Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy
At the U of A, we have launched an interdisciplinary research accelerator, DESERT-PFAS, to explore these issues and pathways forward for Arizona, funded by the AIR Annual Resilience Theme Grant. In addition to the list of collaborators (left), we are also partnering with community organizations, local and state governments, Tribal nations, and others across the state to co-develop integrated research agendas, generate pilot data, explore diverse ways of knowing, and train a workforce equipped to address the PFAS-sustainability nexus.
DESERT PFAS
STUDENT GRAND CHALLENGE
The DESERT-PFAS Student Grand Challenge engages University of Arizona undergraduate and graduate students in applied, team-based research on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and sustainability challenges across Arizona. Selected students will work in teams of up to 4 with a community partner project sponsor and faculty mentor.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work directly with project sponsors and mentors on real-world challenges related to PFAS and sustainability in Arizona, greatly advancing their professional preparation and networks.
PROGRAM DATES:
October 2026 - April 2027
MEET THE TEAM
CO-PIs
GEMMA SMITH
Assistant Research Professor, Udall Center
Assistant Professor, School of Government and Public Policy
RESEARCH TEAM
Publications
Events
September 23-24, 2026: Characterizing PFAS in Arizona: A science-policy-community workshop
September 23, 2026: The Past, Present, and Future of PFAS in Arizona