Susan Allen

Susan Allen is Professor and Chair of the Department of the Environment at Ithaca College's School of Humanities and Sciences. She leads the IC EcoTox Lab, an undergraduate research laboratory focused on environmental toxicology in freshwater systems. Her office is located in the Center for Natural Sciences 253 in Ithaca, NY.

Her educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Toxicology from Oregon State University (1995)
• M.E.M. from Duke University (1989)
• B.Sc. from St. Lawrence University (1984)

Dr. Allen's primary research focuses on environmental toxicology in freshwater systems, with particular emphasis on microplastics in the Cayuga Watershed, tire wear particles and their effects on fish and daphnia, and 'forever chemicals' (PFAS) in the Ithaca area. Her work bridges laboratory analysis with field research to understand how pollutants affect ecological systems. While her Ph.D. research focused on long-range transport of air pollutants into remote areas, she now concentrates on locally-based environmental research with direct community impact.

Her research has gained significant attention, with findings being cited in legal challenges regarding PFAS discharge into Cayuga Lake and featured in local media coverage. The EPA's April 2024 standards for PFAS in drinking water align with her research focus on these emerging contaminants.

Notable recognitions include:

• Presenting her lab's work to the Ithaca College Board of Trustees as an illustration of the college's theory of practice and performance pedagogy
• Multiple features in the Ithaca Times
• Collaboration with Cornell Cooperative Extension
• Media appearances including WICB and IC TV

Dr. Allen actively mentors undergraduate researchers through the IC EcoTox Lab, with many alumni going on to graduate programs at institutions including University of California-Berkeley, Michigan State University, John Hopkins University, Indiana University, and Oregon State University. Her students pursue advanced degrees in Environmental Toxicology, Biogeochemistry, Environmental Engineering, and Public Health.

The IC EcoTox Lab conducts both independent and group research projects, including analysis of tire wear particle leachate effects on juvenile fathead minnows, PFAS data analysis from public drinking water facilities, and microplastic sampling in local waterways. The lab emphasizes community outreach, providing education to the Tompkins County community about environmental pollutants and their impacts.