Qianqian Dong Will Study ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Soil and Water

By Kay Ledbetter

The analysis and remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, PFAS, the “forever chemicals” in soil and water environments, will be the research focus of Qianqian Dong, Ph.D., a new assistant professor in environmental, soil and water chemistry in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Soil and Crop Sciences.

Dong’s appointment is 60% research, 30% teaching and 10% service. Her primary area of research will concentrate on PFAS. These synthetic chemicals, used across a range of industries and in products used daily, can enter waterways and fields.

“My program seeks to close key knowledge gaps by investigating PFAS behavior in soil-water environments, testing new treatment materials and technologies, and designing detection and management tools that can be applied at the farm and community scale,” she said.

Producers need accurate, evidence-based guidance to ensure soil health, food safety and consumer trust, Dong said.

“By providing scientific data and practical tools, my goal is to help farmers and communities make informed decisions while ensuring long-term resilience of our soil and water systems,” she said.

PFAS intersection with soils and crops

PFAS are of concern due to their persistence, ability to migrate through soil and water, and potential to accumulate in plants and animals, Dong said. Key areas of concern for her include the potential for PFAS contamination through land application of biosolids or reclaimed water, irrigation with contaminated water, and the long-term impacts on soil health and possible uptake by plants grown for food or feed.

These issues require scientific investigation to understand actual risks and develop appropriate management practices.