The McKay Lab focuses on the fundamental chemistry of natural and engineered systems. We apply chemical principles and modern instrumentation to understand important processes in environmental engineering science. 

Current research projects include:

• Characterization of dissolved organic matter structure and optical properties to assess engineered treatment systems and environmental processes
• Photochemical and photophysical properties of dissolved organic matter
• Novel treatment technologies for remediation of persistent and hazardous chemicals, including pharmaceuticals/personal care products and fluorochemicals (e.g., PFOA and PFOS)

We are located in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Texas A&M University in College Station, TX. 

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Recent News ​

• Our group has recently been allowed to return to the lab to conduct experiments. Check out this video of Ben Fennell explaining his use of UV photochemical reactors! 
• Our first group dinner was a success! Check out the new photos.
• Our lab is taking shape! Equipment and supplies are arriving. See the photos page for the details.
• Hang Li joins the group as a PhD student. Hang graduated with her BS degree in chemistry from Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA. Welcome Hang!
• Ben Fennell is awarded a a Graduate Merit Fellowship. Click here to learn more. Congrats Ben! 
• Ben Fennell, previously a project manager at Strand Associates, joins the group as a PhD student. Welcome Ben! 
• Professor McKay joins Texas A&M as an assistant professor in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Professor McKay recently published a critical review on DOM photophysics that was featured on the inside front cover of Environmental Science: Processes and Impacts. Read his recent interview with the journal.