Christopher Churchill, PhD
Currently serve as Supervisory Ecologist and Branch Chief of the Ecological Sciences Branch of the Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Started as Biology student in North Texas Branch Office (NTBO) in Fort Worth, Texas of the Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center (OTWSC) in January 2009. Worked primarily on ecological, biological, and water-quality studies. Started the Zebra Mussel Monitoring Program for Texas (ZMMP) in 2010. Moved to full time Hydrologist upon graduating with Ph.D. Served as Project Chief for several studies including ZMMP, cyanobacteria, nutrients dynamics, and compounds of emerging concern. Served as Biology Specialist for the OTWSC. Served as Supervisory Hydrologist and Studies Chief starting in 2018. Served as Branch Chief of the NTBO starting in 2021.
Professional Experience
Zebra Mussel Monitoring Program for Texas; 2010 to present: Design and execute state-wide program for population/reproduction ecology and life-history study of invasive zebra and quagga mussels and associated water quality. Ensure compliance with state and national policies, laws, and regulations regarding research.
Cyanotoxins Methods Assessment Project; 2015 to present: Design and implement state-wide field and laboratory methods assessment study for cyanobacteria, cyanotoxins, taste-and-odor compounds, and associated water quality with identification of land-use practices.
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products Study; 2009 to present: Implement and report interpretive assessment of data set for five-year study on pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and compounds of emerging concern in the Trinity River Basin, Texas
Nutrients Modeling Studies; 2015 to present: Design and execute holistic nutrients studies in north Texas reservoirs to assist funding cooperator in modeling point- and non-point nutrient loadings.
Education and Certifications
Ph.D. Environmental Science; University of North Texas, Denton, Texas 2013
M.S. Molecular Biology; Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, Texas 2007
B.S. Biology; Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, Texas
Chemistry minor 1998