Magnus Breitholtz is a professor of Ecotoxicology whose research is focused on enhancing the risk assessment of environmental contaminants. His primary objective is to discover more relevant and sensitive test methods and biomarkers in order to establish connections between laboratory-scale effects and real-world scenarios, thus enabling better predictions and descriptions of contaminant impacts in the environment.
His work primarily revolves around zooplankton, particularly copepods and daphnids. He endeavors to establish links between various levels of biological organization, including cellular, molecular, and population levels. Additionally, he aims to develop innovative ecotoxicological tests and approaches by integrating biochemical and genetic analysis. To improve the ecological realism of his research, Dr. Breitholtz has increasingly shown interest in utilizing population-modelling tools. Moreover, he investigates the implications of different exposure routes, bioaccumulation, and chemical partitioning, with a particular focus on aquatic toxicity testing of poorly water-soluble substances.
In addition to his scientific research, Magnus Breitholtz actively engages in regulatory efforts. He strives to enhance the scientific foundation of risk assessment and management while also strengthening the protection of the environment against the harmful effects of chemicals. Notably, he has played a leadership role in an international project aimed at developing and validating a proposal for a harpacticoid copepod development and reproduction OECD test guideline.