Chemistry Professor Julie Layshock Named Fulbright Scholar for 2022-23

Pacific University Chemistry Professor Julie Layshock has been named a Fulbright Scholar for 2022-23. The prestigious award will fund her work with researchers at the University of Porto in Portugal to explore natural processes to remove pharmaceuticals from wetlands and other bodies of water.

“This Fulbright award provides an exciting opportunity to work with Portuguese experts in phytoremediation,” Layshock said. “I am hopeful that the knowledge gained will transform my research so that I may continue to work on nature-based solutions to improve water quality for years to come.”

Layshock is interested in addressing pharmaceutical pollution — a global problem in which man-made chemicals contaminate the world’s water supply.

Layshock’s application noted that “it will take a transboundary and multidisciplinary approach to fully understand, embrace, and apply nature-based solutions on a global scale …. I will work with Portuguese researchers at CIIMAR of the University of Porto to develop methodologies and investigate mechanisms that may affect removal of contaminants from water by wetland plants.”

Fulbright scholars are chosen in collaboration with the U.S. State Department, which sees U.S. academic research projects as a way to foster diplomacy between the United States and other nations.