Dr. Donna Kashian is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences and the Department of Environmental Science and Geology.

Main Discipline(s):

Main Professional Societies:

Affiliation(s):

  • Aquatic Ecotoxicology
  • International Association of Great Lakes Research (IAGLR)
  • Society for Freshwater Science
  • Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University
  • Professor, Department of Environmental Science and Geology, Wayne State University
What are your undergraduate and graduate degrees in and from where?
I graduated with a BS in Biology and Earth Science (Dual Major).  Eastern Michigan University M. S. Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University Ph.D. Zoology, University of Wisconsin, Madison
Give a brief summary (250 words or less) of your current area of research.

Through basic and applied research, my lab uses aquatic organisms as sentinels of human and environmental health hazards to further our understanding of contaminants in the environment. Furthermore, I approach some of my research through the lens of environmental justice, as often there is a disproportionate exposure of minority groups to environmental pollutants. I have developed new methods and tools, both physical and mathematical, to improve water quality monitoring. For example, our research has been implemented into community-based educational programs to better inform the public of environmental health threats associated with many disturbances that are a focus of my lab.

How did you arrive at your current area of research?

It all started with an Aquatic Ecology professor from my undergraduate institution and a field trip to do research at Fish Lake Biological Station in his class.

What do you see as a current emerging area of research that you would like to participate in and why?

Anthropogenic Climate change and Biodiversity loss – but they are hardly “emerging” at this point.

Tell us your (one) favorite STEM research paper or book.   Why it is your favorite?
Our Stolen Future by Theo Colborn , Dianne Dumanoski , & John Peterson Myers brought global attention to scientific discoveries about endocrine disruption and the fact that common contaminants can interfere with the hormone systems and the development of the fetus. It outlines how research in the Great Lakes, in part led to this discovery.
Do you have a favorite scientist, engineer or other role model? Who is it and why?

Dr. Theo Colborn was a pioneer in the field of ecotoxicology and led publicizing of endocrine disruption- propelling the field to wider acceptance. She was an artist at science communication, and got her start later in life getting her PhD at 58. She dealt with immense obstacles being a women in a man’s field and did it with grace.

What do you do for fun outside of your role as a woman in STEM?

I enjoy being a mom and doing mom activities like attending sporting events and exploring (hiking, biking and travel) with my family watching them experience the world. Oh… and playing with dogs!

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