Jorge Gardea-Torresdey

Dr. Jorge Gardea-Torresdey is the Richard Dudley Professor of Environmental Science & Engineering and Professor of Chemistry at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he has been a faculty member since 1994. He has held key leadership roles, including Director of the Environmental Science and Engineering PhD Program and Chair of the Chemistry Department. His research is centered in the College of Science, Department of Chemistry, and has profoundly impacted environmental nanotechnology and sustainable agriculture.

Dr. Gardea-Torresdey is a pioneer in environmental nanotechnology, recognized as the first to discover the biological synthesis of gold and silver nanoparticles. His research spans plant-nanoparticle interactions, nanotoxicology, phytoremediation, and the application of nanotechnology in agriculture and water treatment. His work addresses critical global challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability, particularly through nano-enabled solutions for crop resilience and nutrient delivery.

The most recent publications (2022–2024) highlight a strong focus on nanoplastics and microplastics, their environmental impact, and detection methods. Other recurring themes include the toxicity of metal-based nanoparticles (CeO2, CuO, ZnO), nanofertilizers, biochar applications for remediation, and advanced analytical techniques like hyperspectral imaging and spICP-MS. His collaborative network is extensive, frequently co-authoring with researchers such as Jason C. White, Paul Westerhoff, and Jose A. Hernandez-Viezcas.

• 2024 CUSA Professor of the Year Award
• 2024 UTEP Outstanding Researcher: Distinguished Career Award
• 2024 C-USA Faculty Achievement Award
• 2023 Tribute Session at SNO Conference
• 2018 University of Texas System’s STARs Retention Award
• 2012 Piper Professor Award (highest honor in Texas)
• Multiple recognitions as a Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (2018–2023)
• 2016 UTEP Graduate Mentor Award
• 2009 SACNAS Distinguished Scientist of the Year

Dr. Gardea-Torresdey has mentored an extraordinary 47 PhD and 37 MSc students, the most in UTEP’s history, with a strong emphasis on supporting women and underrepresented minorities in STEM. He has led major multi-institutional research centers funded by NSF, USDA, and UC CEIN, totaling over $67 million, focusing on nanotechnology for water treatment and agriculture. He currently serves as Associate Editor of Environmental Science & Technology, one of the top journals in the field.

His research group continues to be highly active, publishing in top-tier journals such as ACS Nano, Nature Food, Science of the Total Environment, and Environmental Science & Technology. His lab investigates the fate, transport, and biological impacts of engineered nanomaterials in terrestrial and aquatic systems, contributing to both fundamental science and practical environmental solutions.