Charlotte researcher first to study contaminants in Arctic depths

In a first-of-its-kind project to study one of the planet’s last unexplored environments, Roger Tipton is leading a team of researchers from multiple universities that will investigate the Arctic’s pristine waters. This rare opportunity has become possible with the recent weakening and melting of the Arctic ice field. Tipton, UNC Charlotte research associate professor of mechanical engineering, and his team will provide a first-ever, critical baseline on water pollutants, particularly PFAS.

Graduate students will play a central role, processing samples, publishing findings, and encouraging future STEM leaders by connecting local Hough High School students with researchers aboard the ice breaker ship though a live-stream session.

“This is a rare, once-in-history chance to gather baseline data before increased external factors change the region. What we collect now will be the reference point for understanding how the Arctic evolves over the next century and longer,” Tipton said.