SERDP and ESTCP Expert Panel Workshop on Research and Development Needs for the Environmental Remediation Application of Molecular Biological Tools

Abstract : SERDP and ESTCP must determine how their limited research, development and demonstration funds can best be invested to improve DoD's ability to effectively address its requirements to remediate contaminated sites. The objectives of this workshop were to (1) examine the current state of the science and technology of molecular biological tools that are applicable to the cleanup of hazardous waste in the field, (2) assess the current operational usage of such tools and identify technical and other barriers to their use, (3) identify promising areas of research and development that have the potential to lead to improved cost-effective tools to support remedial design and decisions, and (4) identify the most promising areas that are ready for and could benefit from rigorous field-scale demonstrations. This report, which documents the findings and recommendations of workshop participants, will serve as a strategic plan to guide future investments in molecular biological tools that can ultimately improve the design, implementation, monitoring and/or performance assessment of remedial technologies.