Ruth Sofield

Ruth Sofield is a Professor in the Environmental Sciences Department at Western Washington University (WWU), where she serves as Chair and Director of the Institute of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. Her research bridges environmental chemistry and toxicology, focusing on contaminant bioavailability, aquatic toxicity, and modeling of emerging pollutants in Puget Sound.

Education:

• PhD, Environmental Science and Engineering, Colorado School of Mines (2003)
• MS, Environmental Science and Engineering, Colorado School of Mines (1999)
• MS, Environmental Sciences, McNeese State University (1995)
• BA, Biology, West Virginia University (1993)

Her work spans laboratory and field studies on metals, PAHs, and microplastics, with collaborations across government, academia, and industry. She co-hosts the Toxicology and Societies Speaker Series and mentors over 150 students annually through capstone projects and the Department of Ecology-funded cleanup site research initiative.

Scientific Affiliations:

• WWU Marine and Coastal Science (MACS) affiliated faculty
• Puget Sound Partnership Science Panel member
• Visiting Researcher, Eawag (2010-2011)