Thomas M. Burbacher, PhD

Dr. Thomas Burbacher is Professor Emeritus in the UW Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences (DEOHS). He previously served as the head of the Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences and Director of the Infant Primate Research Laboratory at the UW National Primate Research Center. He was also the head of the Developmental Toxicology Research Emphasis Area at the Center on Human Development and Disability and served as the Director of the Research Translation and Community Engagement Cores for the UW Superfund Research Program.

Dr. Burbacher holds a PhD in developmental psychology from the University of Washington. His postdoctoral work included research in developmental toxicology in the Environmental Pathology Training program at the UW.

Dr. Burbacher's research investigated changes in brain development and function caused by prenatal exposure to neuroactive substances. His research spanned species. He studied human populations and a variety of animal models to enhance a fundamental understanding of toxicants and their role in biological and behavioral development. Data from Dr. Burbacher's research programs were used to help formulate policies aimed at the protection of human populations from levels of exposure to environmental contaminants such as methylmercury and methanol that are associated with adverse health effects and developmental disabilities.

Dr. Burbacher also served as the DEOHS representative to the UW School of Public Health Curriculum Committee.