Melissa Odorisio

Melissa Odorisio serves as Laboratory Administrator and Chemistry Instructor at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford within the Division of Biological and Health Sciences since 2015, teaching organic chemistry, general chemistry, environmental chemistry, and research methods courses.

Education:

• BS in Chemistry, Allegheny College (1999)
• M.A. in Chemistry (Chemical Education), SUNY Fredonia (2004)

Research Focus: Her work centers on environmental analysis including water/soil sampling, bioactive compound extraction from invasive plant species, and microplastics quantification in wastewater sludge. Projects integrate undergraduate researchers in analytical techniques and environmental monitoring, emphasizing hands-on laboratory applications.

Academic Contributions: Developed and teaches specialized courses in research methods for environmental scientists while managing laboratory operations. Mentors undergraduates in environmental chemistry research through experimental design and sample analysis.

Laboratory Leadership: Oversees instructional and research lab functions within the Division of Biological and Health Sciences, supporting chemistry curriculum delivery and student research initiatives in environmental contaminants.