By Andi Anderson
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals,” have become a global concern due to their persistence and impact on health and the environment.
To tackle this, the Indiana Sustainability Institute (ISF) supports the PFAS Strategic Research Team (SRT)—a multidisciplinary group led by Dr. Jennifer Freeman and Dr. Marisol Sepúlveda.
This team includes scientists from four colleges and eight departments. In 2024–2025, the group significantly advanced PFAS research and public awareness through events, publications, and outreach efforts.
A key achievement was a two-part webinar series co-hosted with the Hoosier Environmental Council.
The first session provided a national overview of PFAS risks and regulations, while the second focused on Indiana’s specific concerns, including biosolids, essential uses, and legislation. The webinars reached wide audiences and are available on ISF’s YouTube channel.
The team also organized film discussions, educational seminars, and partnered with the Indiana Water Resources Research Center to address research gaps. Notable speakers included Harvard’s Dr. Tamarra James-Todd and IU’s Dr. Martha Venier, sharing expertise on PFAS and health.
One major milestone was the Indiana Statewide PFAS Assessment, authored by Tyler Hoskins, which summarizes exposure pathways and makes actionable recommendations. This report has already been downloaded over 500 times.
Faculty received over $4.3 million in research awards and submitted proposals totalling $28 million, including innovations in PFAS removal and destruction technologies.
In recognition of their collective work, the ISF PFAS team received the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Indiana Water Resources Association in June 2025.
Moving forward, the team plans to launch a statewide PFAS Research Network and publish regional studies to continue their critical mission.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Indiana, General