The widespread use of plastic products in food handling poses a direct risk of releasing tiny plastic particles, such as microplastics (less than 5 mm) and nanoplastics (less than 1 µm), into our food. Recent research, including our own, has uncovered alarming findings about these particles being released from plastic food containers, even during typical usage or when usage guidelines are ignored. Some containers can release as many as 4.27 billion microplastics and 2.29 trillion nanoplastics into a liter of water in just three minutes of microwave heating. Our preliminary toxicity study shows that exposure to these particles can result in the death of human embryonic kidney cells. This revelation has prompted pressing public health concerns, with unresolved questions about release circumstances, plastic types, ingestion levels, and toxicity. Moreover, it is vital to explore potential disparities based on demographics and access to alternative containers.
Faculty Advisor Mentoring Philosophy
As your faculty advisor, I am committed to providing the undergraduate researcher with the guidance and support needed to ensure a successful undergraduate experience. Our mentoring philosophy is based on principles of collaboration, communication, and personal growth, and we are dedicated to facilitating the academic and professional development of the undergraduate researcher.
- Open Communication: Our mentoring relationship is built on open and honest communication. The thoughts, questions, and concerns of the undergraduate researcher are always welcome, and we encourage them to reach out whenever necessary.
- Professional Development: We are devoted to the academic and professional growth of the undergraduate researcher. Together, we will set clear objectives and create a plan to achieve them, whether through research projects, internships, or graduate school preparation.
- Collaboration: Working alongside a PhD student, the undergraduate researcher will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research and gain practical experience. Our team values collaboration and fosters a supportive environment for learning from one another.
- Support: We understand the challenges the undergraduate researcher may face during their journey. They can rely on our team for academic, emotional, and career-related support whenever needed.
Faculty Advisor | Yusong Li | |
Contact E-Mail | yli7@unl.edu | |
Department | Civil and Environmental Engineering | |
Potential UCARE Research Position? | Yes | |
UCARE Terms | Both next summer (2024) and next academic year (2024-2025) | |
Paid or Volunteer Experience? | Paid by UCARE Funding | |
Hours per Week | Up to 10 in spring and fall; up to 20 in summer | |
Acceptable Undergraduate Majors | Engineering and Science |