Dr. Bolender has two distinct research priorities in his laboratory. The first project, which is more fundamental chemistry, is the study of novel, lanthanide ion-containing, water-dispersive nanoparticles. These nanoparticles have potential uses that include efficient light-emitting materials for various uses (fluorescent lights, LED screens, etc.), and as potential MRI contrast agents. Current studies include the synthesis, characterization, and determination of fundamental photo physical properties of novel water dispersive nanoparticles.  Students involved in this work use time-resolved and steady-state luminescence, dynamic light scattering, x-ray diffraction, and other techniques.  This work is funded since 2011 by the Lundin Foundation for Cancer Research.  

Dr. Bolender's second project is a long-term water project in the southwestern region of Uganda. In this region, we work with Ugandan and other international partners to assess the impact of poor water quality on childhood and community health. Our work includes the assessment of water issues, and we were the first to find uranium at high concentrations in local groundwater sources. We also work with colleagues in Engineering to develop water filtration devices that are designed to use locally sourced materials.  This work includes the use of locally sourced biomass to sequester metals and other contaminants.  Current studies in conjunction with colleagues at the Mbarara University of Science and Technology include the survey of groundwater-sourced crater lakes in western Uganda for fluoride and other contaminants, and the development of materials based on cassava to sequester fluoride.  This work has been supported since 2005 by the Danvera Foundation.  

Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Pollution, Chemistry, Spectroscopy, Applied Science