Leah Chibwe

Leah Chibwe is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of R's Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on environmental and analytical chemistry, with an emphasis on emerging pollutants, persistent organic pollutants, and non-targeted analysis. She investigates chemical mixtures in environmental samples, such as tire wear particles, oil sands pollutants, and flame retardants, using advanced analytical techniques like GCxGC/TOFMS. Her work addresses toxicity, source apportionment, and bioremediation efficacy in diverse ecosystems, including aquatic and terrestrial environments.

Key research areas include polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAHs), transformation products, and environmental contaminants in wildlife (e.g., turtles). She develops frameworks for identifying toxic transformation products and optimizing forensic methodologies. Her studies span Canada's Athabasca Oil Sands region, remote California habitats, and urban environments, reflecting a global perspective on pollution impacts.

Chibwe’s publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches linking analytical chemistry with ecotoxicology and environmental policy. Her work informs strategies to mitigate pollution threats to ecosystems and human health, emphasizing both traditional and cutting-edge analytical methods.