In Episode 2, Rita Ekhareafo shares her research on the environmental and health risks posed by abandoned mines, where over a million sites remain largely unassessed. Rita explains how her work is focusing on the impact of abandoned mine sites in Nigeria on local communities, particularly regarding water quality and public health. She details how she is investigating the levels of heavy metals and other contaminants in water sources and how these are affecting the health of people living nearby. She shares her hopes that her research will highlight the need for proper regulation and remediation of these sites to protect vulnerable populations. Rita also reflects on the importance of motivation, mentorship, and making time to rest while navigating the demands of a PhD.

To find out more about becoming a researcher at Brunel University of London visit www.brunel.ac.uk.

*Episode correction at 10:08 and 10:26 Rita meant to say "six mines in a year’’ not four.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Rita Ekhareafo, Brunel University of London

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Music: Yourtunes

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