Brian Laird

Brian Laird is an Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at the School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo. His research focuses on improving the characterization of human exposures and risks from environmental contamination, particularly through dietary contaminants and their interactions with nutrients like selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. He leads biomonitoring projects in Canada’s subarctic, studying contaminant exposure in Indigenous communities. Laird holds a BSc in Environmental Toxicology from the University of Guelph, a PhD in Toxicology from the University of Saskatchewan, and postdoctoral research in Biology (University of Ottawa) and Community Health Sciences (University of Northern British Columbia). His work bridges environmental health, toxicology, and nutrition, emphasizing risk assessment and intervention strategies. Current projects include evaluating contaminants in traditional foods and their health implications in the Northwest Territories.

Teaching interests include environmental health, toxicology, and chemical risk management. He collaborates with northern communities to co-develop dietary messaging and address food security challenges. Key research themes involve mercury bioaccumulation, persistent organic pollutants, and heavy metal exposure in Arctic/Subarctic populations. Laird’s interdisciplinary approach integrates public health, environmental science, and community engagement to address complex contaminant challenges.