William Borkan

William Borkan is a Researcher at the Integrated Environmental Science and Health Risk Laboratory led by Dr. Mónica Ramírez-Andreotta at the University of Arizona. He holds a Master's of Science (2023) from the Department of Environmental Science, following a Bachelor’s of Arts from the University of Denver (2013). His work focuses on contaminant transport mechanisms, particularly uranium in fractured rock and PFAS behavior, with applied research on Indigenous environmental health and remediation of historical contamination.

Education:

• B.A., University of Denver, 2013
• M.S., University of Arizona (Environmental Science), 2023

Research emphasizes heavy metal and emerging contaminant dynamics, integrating Indigenous knowledge systems through collaborations like the NSF Indige-FEWSS Traineeship (2021-2022). His internship with the Navajo Nation EPA Superfund Program addressed abandoned uranium mine impacts. Current interests include science communication and community-engaged environmental justice initiatives.

Labs/Teams:

• Contaminant Transport Lab (Dr. Mark Brusseau)
• Ramirez-Andreotta Lab

Advising/Grants: Participated in NSF-funded Indigenous FEWSS training and tribal education programs.