Heather Preisendanz

Heather Preisendanz is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering at Pennsylvania State University. Her research focuses on the fate, transport, and impacts of emerging contaminants, particularly PFAS, in agricultural and environmental systems. She leads interdisciplinary projects addressing water quality, contaminant mitigation, and sustainable land management.

Recent work includes studies on PFAS contamination in private wells and agricultural fields, the efficacy of vegetative buffers, and low-cost water treatment solutions using biochar. She has been recognized as an Institute of Energy and the Environment (IEE) Fellow and contributed to projects like 'Developing Water Treatment Technologies for PFAS Removal in Disadvantaged Communities.'

Her research integrates hydrology, biogeochemistry, and socio-technical systems to address environmental challenges. Collaborations include the USDA, Monash University, and the Chesapeake Bay watershed initiatives. She emphasizes translational science, bridging academic research with practical solutions for water sustainability.

• Affiliations: College of Agricultural Sciences, IEE Fellow, Agricultural & Biological Engineering Department
• Grants: USDA grants, IEE seed grants, and interdisciplinary funding for PFAS and water quality projects
• Key Projects: PFAS removal technologies, agroecosystem contaminant mitigation, and policy-relevant environmental assessments