Prof. Dr. Denise Mitrano

Research area

As an environmental analytical chemist, my research focuses on the distribution and impacts of anthropogenic materials in environmental systems. I am particularly interested in developing analytical tools to systematically understand the mechanisms and processes driving the fate, transport and biological interactions of particles, such nano- and microplastics. This interdisciplinary approach connecting the terrestrial water cycle and soil ecosystem services allows my research group to assess risks of anthropogenic contaminants across various ecosystems and scales. An interest in a “safer by design” approach is exemplified by working on the boundaries of environmental science, materials science and policy to promote sustainability, environmental health and safety of new materials. My work has been recognized by the Swiss National Science Foundation Marie Heim Vögtlin Prize for Outstanding Young Woman Researcher of the Year (2021), the James J. Morgan Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions to Environmental Science from ES&T and the ACS Division of Environmental Chemistry (2022), and the Emerging Investigator in Atomic Spectroscopy Award (2022).