Senior Research Scientist
EPA's Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response

Current Research

The first major focus of my research is developing science to inform safe, effective reuse of various alternative water sources (typical combined domestic wastewater, source separate greywater from sinks  and showers, rainwater, air conditioning condensate, stormwater), with emphasis on decentralized systems at building or district scales within urban environments. The research includes risk modeling to define appropriate treatment guidelines, innovative microbiological methods to assess treatment performance, and life cycle modelling to evaluate the overall cost/benefit of alternative reuse options. The second major research area is assessing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across the water cycle, particularly within sewer systems and surface waters impacted by both human and agricultural waste.

Why This Science Matters

More sustainable approaches to water systems, including various forms of water reuse, are of increasing interest across the nation. The impact of our work benefits greatly from close association with a group of utilities and local/state public health agencies who have developed recommended guidance on water reuse based on our science. AMR is considered one of the major public health threats of the 21^st century, and our collaborative work with the interagency (FDA, USDA, CDC) National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System is helping to define the environmental dimension of this complex issue.

Education

1991 Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences (Ecology Track), University of Virginia
1985 M.S. in Biology (Aquatic Ecology focus), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University  
1983 B.S. in Zoology, Ohio State University 

Awards

2003 NASA Space Flight Awareness Honoree for dedication in support of the space program 
1988, 1999, 2002, 2003 NASA Certificate of Recognition for creative development of technical innovation 

EPA Publications

Jay Garland's research publications in the EPA Science Inventory.
EPA Science Matters Newsletter: Meet EPA Scientist Jay Garland

Related Resources

Homeland Security Research Program
Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response (CESER)
Contact CESER