Julie LaBar

Dr. Julie LaBar is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant & Soil Sciences at Oklahoma State University. She holds a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Oklahoma and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Environmental Engineering at Saint Francis University. Her research focuses on mitigating the environmental impacts of historic mining activities, particularly on water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Key areas include trace metal cycling, passive treatment systems, and watershed monitoring. Prior to OSU, she taught at Centenary University in New Jersey and worked as a Principal Environmental Scientist at BioMost Inc.

• Education:
  • PhD, Environmental Science, University of Oklahoma (2016)
  • MS, Environmental Science, University of Oklahoma (2007)
  • BS, Environmental Science, University of Oklahoma (2004)
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship, Saint Francis University (2016–2018)

Her research emphasizes practical solutions with community impact, such as passive treatment systems for mine drainage and nature-based solutions for water quality improvement. She has contributed to projects in Bolivia, Appalachia, and Oklahoma, addressing acid mine drainage, metal toxicity, and watershed restoration.

Teaching responsibilities include courses like Environmental Soil Chemistry, Advanced Environmental Sampling, and National Environmental Policy Act. She advises undergraduate internships and mentors students in environmental policy and field methods.

Dr. LaBar’s work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 6 (Clean Water), 11 (Sustainable Cities), 13 (Climate Action), and 14 (Life Below Water). Her articles explore novel treatment technologies, biogeochemical processes in mine-impacted systems, and the ecological implications of legacy mining.