UTC Professor Sean Richards Focuses Research on Ecotoxicology and Environmental Health

Richards has spent 25 years studying the exposure and effects of toxicants on bacteria, humans and ecosystems.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Dr. Sean Richards, a UC Foundation professor in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, has spent the last 25 years conducting research primarily focused on ecotoxicology and environmental health. His work examines the exposure and effects of toxicants on bacteria, humans and ecosystems. Richards currently serves as an associate editor, board member, and review board member for several scientific journals and organizations.

Why it matters

Richards' research on ecotoxicology and environmental health is crucial for understanding the impacts of pollutants and toxicants on natural ecosystems and human health. His work helps identify and mitigate environmental threats, informing policies and practices to protect the environment and public wellbeing.

The details

Richards initially studied biology and natural ecosystems before transitioning to veterinary medicine and then finding his path in toxicology. He became fascinated by how a single molecule can drastically impact physiology. Richards now studies the fate and transport of pollutants like insecticides, examining how they move through the environment and affect organisms. More recently, he has collaborated with a chemistry professor on metabolomics research, using blood samples to create unique "fingerprints" that can detect conditions like diabetes and cancer.

  • Richards has conducted research for the past 25 years.
  • He currently serves on the editorial board of the Global Journal of Environmental Science and Management.

The players

Dr. Sean Richards

A UC Foundation professor in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga who has spent 25 years researching ecotoxicology and environmental health.

Dr. Steve Symes

A chemistry professor at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga who collaborates closely with Richards on metabolomics research.

Tori McCroskey

A student working with Dr. Sean Richards on research related to toxic substances in placentas.

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What they’re saying

“I started as a biology major. I was interested in natural ecosystems and the biology of life.”

— Dr. Sean Richards, UC Foundation Professor (utc.edu)

“I found a pivotal point that directed me toward toxicology. I was at the medical school and appreciated all the toxicity issues going on there, but I also had a strong love for the environment.”

— Dr. Sean Richards, UC Foundation Professor (utc.edu)

“I marvel at the complexities and beauty of both ecosystems and ecosystem functions, and at how intricately they work together to provide us with a living environment.”

— Dr. Sean Richards, UC Foundation Professor (utc.edu)

What’s next

Richards and his collaborator Dr. Steve Symes plan to continue their metabolomics research, working with physicians at Erlanger on a study examining blood, saliva and urine samples from women with endometriosis and endometrial cancer.

The takeaway

Dr. Sean Richards' decades-long research on ecotoxicology and environmental health underscores the critical importance of understanding how pollutants and toxicants impact natural ecosystems and human health. His work helps inform policies and practices to protect the environment and public wellbeing.