Mintesinot Jiru holds a PhD in Applied Biological Sciences from Gent University (Belgium) and is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Natural Sciences at Coppin State University. He has over 20 years of teaching and research experience in areas of climate change and environmental contaminants. Dr. Jiru has done extensive work on land degradation, food security, and water management issues in Africa. His research focuses on understanding the socio-environmental and biophysical issues encompassing water quality in Baltimore’s watersheds. Currently he is leading a research program on emerging environmental contaminants with a focus on microplastics, toxic heavy metals and pharmaceuticals (mainly estrogen in water). Dr. Jiru serves as the chief editor for the American Journal of Experimental Agriculture. He is a member of the External Advisory Board for the National Socio-environmental Synthesis Center.