As a toxicologist I have a long standing interest in trying to understand how various chemical exposures come to adversely affect our health.  Specifically, I try to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which various air pollutants, and other inhaled toxicants produce lung injury and respiratory dysfunction. Recently I have turned attention toward human exposures of local importance.  The safety of unconventional natural gas drilling, or "fracking" is controversial and occurring in PA at an unprecedented rate.  By conducting air pollution monitoring studies in the vicinity of residences in close proximity to gas extraction activities we hope to assist communities and stakeholders in making the transition to this booming industry in a safe and responsible manner.  Productive research frequently requires extensive collaboration and at times I have worked closely with many other faculty in our department and university.