Dr. Alistair Brown

• PhD (Chemistry), University of Manitoba, Canada
• BSc (Biochemistry - Honours), University of Winnipeg, Canada

TBA

Research interests

Dr. Brown is the Director of the Manitoba Analytical Solutions (MASS) Lab - the University of Manitoba's new premier mass spectrometry laboratory at the Richardson Centre for Food Technology and Research. The focus of research is analytical method development using liquid chromatography and gas chromatography mass spectrometry. At the core are the dynamic movement, transformation, and fate of trace organic contaminants from agriculture and engineered/surface waters through the sub-surface soil (vadose) region and water-sediment interface. As a member of the UM Water Institute, collaborations on bigger picture questions cross-pollinate many new partnerships; and they are being forged with several departments in faculties across campus including FAFS, Science, and Environment. Moreover, collaborations are underway with the IISD - Experimental Lakes Area, and the Canadian Grain Commission. Dr. Brown has also recently created novel quantitative regulatory pesticide methods for Health Canada and the Pest Management Regulatory Agency. Research interests are focused on:

• Pesticides and their biotic and abiotic transformation products in soils
• Degradation and leaching of poly- and perfluorinated compounds from buried textiles on the Canadian Prairies
• Ultraviolet filters distribution, fate, and transformation in soil, sediment, surface waters, and engineered waters

Job Opportunities

Dr. Brown is now accepting applications for the winter 2025 term and onward for undergraduate USRAs, honours thesis students, as well as graduate students. Ideal candidates would have a background in any area (or combination) of analytical chemistry, soil chemistry, pesticide usage/remediation, or biosystems engineering, with a keen interest in outdoor experience.