About Applied Ecological Toxicology Research Lab

The Applied Ecological Toxicology Research Group focuses on generating actionable science to address environmental challenges associated with resource development, with an emphasis on surface water quality in northern and remote regions of Canada. The group specializes in understanding how trace elements, metals, and radionuclides behave in aquatic systems, how they move through food webs, and how they affect aquatic organisms and ecosystem health.

Research conducted by the group is firmly applied in nature, bridging fundamental ecotoxicology with environmental monitoring, risk assessment, and remediation evaluation. A core strength of the group lies in linking chemical exposure, bioavailability, and biological effects, ensuring that environmental science remains relevant to real‑world decision‑making.

About Dr. Karsten Liber

Karsten Liber, PhD, is an environmental scientist and academic leader specializing in aquatic ecotoxicology and environmental sustainability. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the School of Environment and Sustainability (SENS) at the University of Saskatchewan, where he is also a Distinguished Professor. He previously served as Director of the Toxicology Centre, where he played a key role in developing one of Canada's leading environmental toxicology programs. As Executive Director of SENS, he provides both academic and administrative leadership, guiding strategic direction and advancing interdisciplinary sustainability research and education.

Dr. Liber's research focuses on understanding the impacts of pollutants—such as metals, pesticides, and industrial contaminants—on aquatic ecosystems, with an emphasis on ecological risk assessment and water quality. His work contributes to improving environmental monitoring and informing policies for the protection of freshwater systems. He has received national recognition, including awards for Outstanding Contributions to Canadian Ecotoxicology, reflecting his significant impact on environmental science and research leadership.

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