The program will focus on the analytical and physical chemistry of metal ions in aqueous environments and bioavailabilities of complex species. Due attention will be given to the speciation and bioavailability of organic compounds. Modern analytical speciation techniques such as DGT, PLM, DMT, voltammetries, ligand exchange methods, SPME, radiotracer techniques, etc. will be discussed in methodological detail. The theoretical background of metal ion binding by simple ligands, macromolecular complexing agents and particles will be a key topic. Known equilibrium speciation codes will be tested in interactive exercises. Dynamic features of complex systems and their ensuing lability characteristics will be discussed on the basis of the reaction kinetics and molecular transport. The most common types of biomembrane transfer processes and the corresponding rate equations will be evaluated in terms of their underlying physicochemical principles, and illustrated by a couple of case studies on metal uptake by animals and plants.

The program is concluded by a session in which participants discuss their own research topics within the framework of subjects presented in the course. The various sessions are led by a small international team of specialists. As much as possible, the lectures will be of an interactive nature.

The course fee is € 250 for PhD students and € 400 for postdocs. Accommodation is available in the international WICC centre in Wageningen at a price level of around € 70 per night.