SRP trainees learn from NC DEQ staff about Superfund site assessment process during short course

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) staff from the Division of Waste Management (DWM) visited UNC in May 2024 to connect with UNC SRP trainees around the Superfund site assessment process and local hazardous waste sites of interest. Dr. Qu Qi, from the DWM Federal Remediation Branch, presented during a short course organized by the UNC SRP Research Translation (RT) team, with the Research Experience Training and Coordination Core. The course was attended by 20 trainees, faculty, and staff interested in learning more about the way the state identifies and remediates hazardous waste sites.

After a short introductory activity led by the RT team, Dr. Qi shared how hazardous waste sites in North Carolina are evaluated by the DWM and EPA to determine if they meet qualifications to be listed on the National Priorities List as a federal Superfund site. He also discussed alternative pathways to site remediation, such as through the Inactive Hazardous Sites Program.

Dr. Qi also highlighted his career path from a self-described “hardcore” geologist, studying rocks from the Earth’s mantle, to a state employee wanting to do work that that more directly helps people. Trainees were engaged in thinking about possible careers that might be available to them upon graduation, and how as environmental scientists they could be involved in the Superfund site assessment process in the future. “I think learning more about the hazardous waste management career path was most valuable for me,” mentioned one SRP trainee.

“We were excited for the opportunity to help our trainees learn more about the work that the Division of Waste Management is doing to protect communities from hazardous waste in this short course,” said Sarah Yelton, UNC SRP Research Translation Coordinator. “We look forward to continued meaningful interactions with the DWM around NC’s hazardous waste sites for our trainees and scientists.”

Dr. Qu Qi, NC DEQ, teaches trainees about he Superfund Assessment process

By: Chase Bergeson, UNC SRP Research Translation Associate