Peter Van den Hurk

Dr. Peter van den Hurk is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Clemson University's College of Science, where he also serves as Program Coordinator for the Graduate Program in Environmental Toxicology. His laboratories are located in Jordan Hall 224/225, and his office in Long Hall 237. With a career spanning environmental consulting, academic research, and toxicology education, he investigates detoxification mechanisms in animals exposed to environmental contaminants.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Marine Science, College of William & Mary (1998)
• M.S. in Zoology/Marine Biology, University of Amsterdam (1988)
• B.S. in Geology and B.S. in Biology, State University Groningen (1983)

Research Focus: Dr. van den Hurk explores how animals process environmental toxins through evolved detoxification pathways, with emphasis on liver functions and bile-mediated excretion. His current projects include: tire wear particle toxicity in estuarine species, acetaminophen effects in reptiles/birds, and bioremediation of microplastics using floating treatment wetlands. His work employs biomarkers to assess toxicant exposure and evolutionary adaptations across species.

Publication Trends: Recent articles (2017-2024) demonstrate a strong focus on emerging contaminants like microplastics and nanoparticles, phylogenetic comparisons of detoxification mechanisms, and biomarker development in aquatic species. His research bridges field studies (e.g., river pollution assessments) with laboratory investigations of biochemical pathways.

Academic Service: Dr. van den Hurk actively reviews for toxicology journals and NSF/NIH grant panels. As Associate Member of the Graduate Faculty at the Medical University of South Carolina, he extends his collaborative network. He mentors students through undergraduate research courses and creative inquiry projects.

Teaching: Courses include Principles of Toxicology (ETOX 4300/6300), Fundamentals of Ecotoxicology (ETOX 4370/6370), Biomarkers in Environmental Toxicology (ETOX 8310/8311), and specialized seminars/labs focusing on wildlife pharmaco-toxicology.