Drexel Experts Available to Comment on the Earthquake and Tsunami that Hit Japan

Drexel University experts are available to assist the news media in the continuing coverage of the aftermath of the earthquake-shaken and tsunami-stricken Japan. Experts include:

Drinking Water:
Dr. Charles Haas, professor of environmental engineering and head of Drexel’s Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, is an expert in the treatment of drinking water. He can comment on the infectious diseases that can occur from the drinking water in the affected areas.

Infrastructure:
Dr. Frank Moon, professor of civil, architecture and environmental engineering, can comment on the performance of buildings and other infrastructure during and after earthquakes.

Impact on Mammals and Sea Life:
Dr. James Spotila, professor of environmental science, can comment on the impact of the tsunami on mammals and other sea creatures.

Coastal Processes:
Dr. Richard Weggel, emeritus professor of civil, architecture and environmental engineering, is an expert in the area of coastal engineering, which includes knowledge of ocean waves, coastal processes and shoreline erosion.

Children’s Health and Rights:
Dr. Mariana Chilton, associate professor of community health and prevention, can assess the impact of hunger and food insecurity on the women and children. Her research focuses on nutritional status and human rights.

Environmental and Occupational Health:
Dr. Arthur Frank, chair of the department of environmental and occupational health, is a commissioned officer in the United States Public Health Service with extensive international experience and experience in South Asia. He can comment on all environmental and public health safety issues.

Toxicology and Radiation:
Dr. Curtis Cummings, professor of environmental and occupational health, is a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Navy Medical Corps and the U.S. Public Health Service, including service as the head of the Safety and Health Department of the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute.  His research focuses on medical effects of ionizing radiation, toxicology of heavy metals and medical readiness and counter-terrorism.

Emergency Preparedness:
Dr. Esther Chernak is a professor and director of the Center for Public Health Readiness & Communication.  She previously served as the head of Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.  Chernak can speak on all aspects of a city and country planning for disasters, including surveillance programs, health alert networks and communications to vulnerable populations. She can also can comment on the health risks for the survivors of the tsunami and measures they can take to decrease the possibility of illness.


** To schedule an interview with a Drexel expert, contact the Drexel News Bureau at 215-895-6741 or 215-778-7752. **

News media contact:
Niki Gianakaris, director, Drexel News Bureau
215-895-6741, 215-778-7752 (cell), ngianakaris@drexel.edu