ESF Researchers Receive Grant for Groundbreaking Research on “Forever Chemicals”

Drs. Leem and Yoo Awarded Seed Funding from SUNY Technology Accelerator Fund

11/25/2024

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Nov. 25, 2024 – Two researchers at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) have been awarded seed funding to advance their work on measuring PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals." Dr. Gyu Leem, from the Department of Chemistry, and Dr. Chang Geun Yoo, from the Department of Chemical Engineering, received the funding through the SUNY Technology Accelerator Fund (TAF).

Their groundbreaking research — Sensor for Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) —aims to revolutionize the way PFAS are measured in the field. Traditionally, testing water samples for these harmful chemicals requires sending the samples to specialized labs for analysis, a process that can be slow and costly. The ESF team has developed an innovative electrochemical sensing device that enables direct, on-site measurement of PFAS, providing immediate results for environmental monitoring.

State University Chancellor John B. King Jr. announced the grants, which total $425,000 in seed funding across seven SUNY campuses. The funding will support innovative technologies that address serious environmental issues, treat critical illnesses, and bolster New York’s high-tech electronics industry.

“SUNY faculty are leading the way in cutting-edge research in areas from health to sustainability, and we are proud to facilitate the translation of research at SUNY campuses into real-life solutions scaled to help communities across New York State and our nation,” said Chancellor King.

"Drs. Leem and Yoo’s innovative work is a game-changer in how we tackle the issue of PFAS contamination,” said Dr. Lindi Quackenbush, interim vice president for research. “Their research will make it easier to quickly detect these harmful chemicals, helping protect both the environment and public health in real time."

Working on the project with Leem and Yoo are chemical engineering post-doc Dr. Rich List, and chemistry Ph.D. students Ramachandra Legundapati and Katie Gavazzi.

The TAF program, which has been in operation since 2011, helps faculty researchers and inventors commercialize their innovations by funding feasibility studies, prototyping, and testing. The program focuses on projects that demonstrate significant commercial potential and societal impact. Through this competitive process, TAF grants aim to attract investors and accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies.

Since its inception, TAF has invested over $3.6 million in more than 70 projects across SUNY campuses, generating an additional $17 million in follow-on investment from industry partners, government agencies, and early-stage investors.

About SUNY ESF

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.

About the SUNY Research Foundation
The SUNY Research Foundation (RF) is the nation’s largest comprehensive university-connected research foundation, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in fields like artificial intelligence, clean energy, biotechnology, and environmental health. The RF supports SUNY’s 30 campuses in securing research funding, commercializing intellectual property, and establishing partnerships that drive economic growth and improve lives.

For more information about SUNY and its research initiatives, visit suny.edu.