Texas Tech's The Institute of Environmental and Human Health at Reese Technology Center receives state honor.

When news reports cited a study that showed perchlorate—a chemical related to rocket fuel—in milk samples, the public could thank researchers at Texas Tech’s Institute of Environmental and Human Health for monitoring our supplies. Unknown to some Texans, this West Texas university operates a program rich with budding, collegiate students focused on improving and protecting the environment. Now becoming known to the world, an external review board recently ranked The Institute of Environmental and Human Health (TIEHH) as one of the country’s top environmental toxicology graduate programs. This world-class research facility produces graduate students that are highly recruited, and who explore regional, national, and international issues that affect the environment.

Two TIEHH studies that have dramatically impacted the Texas environment are the Brazos River Study and the Caddo Lake Study. TIEHH’s work aided in evaluating the cleanup of the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant and the transfer of Department of Defense property to the United States Fish and Wildlife Services, and resulted in forming the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

One groundbreaking project focused on developing comfortable protective gear used in guarding professionals from hazardous materials during counterterrorism efforts. Specifically, scientists are experimenting with ways to use locally-grown cotton and particulate cleaners like activated carbon to create lighter and more breathable fabrics. In addition, this technology can also be used for chemical cleanup wipes, bullet-proof vests, and filters for breathing apparatus and gas masks.

The Institute’s state-of-the-art laboratories are housed in six buildings covering more than 150,000 square feet. Researchers have partnered with almost 20 federal agencies and some of America’s leading manufacturers. These successes ensure that Texas Tech’s graduate students receive unique training to take their experiences out into the world to improve air and water quality and reduce environmental toxins.

Each year, applications for the Texas Environmental Excellence Awards are judged by the Governor's Blue Ribbon Committee according to a set of criteria, as determined by TCEQ.   

TIEHH Link