Multiple harmful algal blooms (HABs) of increasing frequency, duration and severity have occurred in waters surrounding and within the state of Florida over the past decade.
A research team led by Rebecca Koszalinski, an expert at applying technological solutions to improve the health of older adults, are currently investigating potential short- and long-term health outcomes of exposure to harmful algal blooms.
MISSION
The mission of the Human Health Outcomes of Exposure to Environmental Toxins Lab (HHOT) is to investigate correlation of reported symptoms (integumentary, respiratory, neurological, gastrointestinal and hepatic) with concurrently collected air, water and biological samples (mucus, blood and urine). The outcomes of this research will elucidate the state of health of Central and South Floridians in relation to environmental exposures identified as blue green algae (microcystins; brevetoxins) and red tide (Karenia brevis) toxins.
rESEARCH TEAM
- Malcolm McFarland, Ph.D., Co-Principal Investigator, Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
- Michael Parsons, Ph.D., Florida Gulf Coast University
- John Reif, DVM, MSc, med., Colorado School of Public Health, Colorado State University
- Adam Schaefer, MPH, MBA, PMP
- Ann Cary, Ph.D., RN, Florida Gulf Coast University Marieb College of Health and Human Services
- Judyta Kociolek, MSN, RN, Florida Atlantic University
- Alex Rockenstyre, Research Specialist
rESEARCH & FUNDING
Current research projects and funding:
- Fellowship in the 2025 cohort of the Environmental Health Research Institute for Nurse and Clinician Scientists (EHRI-NCS). Funded by EHRI-NCS, NIH. Jessica Castner, PhD, RN-BC, FAEN, FAAN, Principal investigator.
- PI-Health Outcomes Associated with Algal Blooms of Cyanobacteria and Red Tide in Florida: Long-Term Health Impacts of Harmful Algal Bloom Exposure, Phase 2. University of Central Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University. Florida Department of Health.
- PI-Health Outcomes Associated with Algal Blooms of Cyanobacteria and Red Tide in Florida: A Secondary Data Analysis. Theta Epsilon, Sigma Theta Tau. University of Central Florida, College of Nursing.
- CoI – Exploring Differential Reactions to Robotic Pet SEAL: Cognitive and Cultural Influences Among Older Adults. University of Central Florida, Center for Behavioral Health Research and Training (CBHRT) Seed Grant.