(Prof. V. Slaveykova)

The Aquatic Biogeochemistry and Ecotoxicology Group (AquaGE), which started its activities in August 2010, is headed by Professor V. Slaveykova. AquaGE research aims to improve our understanding at the molecular level of the basic processes that govern the behaviour of toxic trace metals and nanoparticles in aquatic systems, from their input to the site of biological action. Our emphasis is on the development of new state-of-the-art-tools to study their interactions with various biotic and abiotic constituents of aquatic systems. A unifying concept of this broad scope research is bioavailability that allows for relating different processes at the medium organisms’ interfaces with biological effects. The long term goal of our research is to apply this fundamental knowledge to anticipate the combined effects of global change, chemical and physical stress on the water quality, to foresee the associated consequences and to prevent possible risks. Thus we are contributing to development of rational aquatic systems management practices for the 21st century.