Research

Research interests

My research focuses on trace metals biogeochemistry with particular reference to bioactive (i.e. iron, cobalt and copper) and toxic (i.e. lead) metals. I am interested in the chemical, biological, and physical processes which affect trace element distributions and behavior in both coastal and open ocean regimes and how natural and anthropogenic environmental perturbations affect trace element biogeochemical cycles. This research combines speciation studies and analytical chemistry and is approached from two directions: field measurements and laboratory studies. The laboratory utilizes flow injection analysis, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and voltammetric techniques to investigate the distribution and chemical speciation of trace elements in seawater.

Fuente: Juan Santos-Echeandía

Current areas of research

• Biogeochemical cycles, focused on metal and nutrient cycling with its implications for water and sediment quality and ecosystems.
• Impact of phytoplankton blooms and upwelling events on the cycling of dissolved materials (e.g., metals, nutrients) in coastal waters.
• Physico-chemical speciation of bioactive and toxic metals in natural waters.
• Trace metal-organic matter interactions
• Environmental Pollution
• Environmental Analytical Chemistry.

In general, the work developed by Dr. Santos-Echeandía is part of national (LOICZ) and international (GEOTRACES, IMBER) programs.