My Journey in Environmental Toxicology and Trace Analysis

I am Guo-Ping Chang-Chien, a full Professor and the Director of Center for Environmental Toxin and Emerging-Contaminants Research(CENTER) at Cheng Shiu University, Taiwan. For over three decades, my professional life has been dedicated to the fields of chemical engineering and environmental science. I have focused my efforts on becoming a leading authority in the detection and control of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), with a specific emphasis on dioxins—the substances often termed the "Century Poison."

Building a Legacy of Excellence

In 1999, motivated by the global dioxin crisis in Belgium, I founded what was then known as the "Super Micro Mass Research and Technology Center." Under my leadership, this center has evolved into the CENTER, an international-grade facility. We hold prestigious certifications, including ISO/IEC 17025, and are fully recognized by the Ministry of Environment (EPA) and the TFDA. Today, I am proud to say our center offers over 1,600 validated analytical methods.

I have always believed that academia should drive industrial progress. Currently, I manage an annual industry-academia collaboration portfolio exceeding NT$230 million. This work allows me to provide essential technical support to both government bodies and private enterprises, focusing on pollution reduction, carbon footprint verification, and the development of net-zero emission strategies.

Scientific Contributions and Expertise

Throughout my career, I have explored various facets of science, from ultra-trace analysis and air toxicology to the extraction of natural anti-cancer compounds. To date, I have published more than 225 SCI papers with an h-index of 44. This research reflects my commitment to influencing global environmental policy. My recent work focuses on emerging contaminants like PFAS and the detection of prohibited substances in sports, aiming to bridge the critical gap between environmental safety and public health.

My Vision for Global Collaboration

I am a firm believer in international academic diplomacy. Between 2022 and 2025, I spearheaded collaborations with over 16 international teams from countries including Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and the United States. These partnerships are vital for technology transfer and solving the cross-border pollution issues that affect us all.

Through my various roles on environmental committees and in professional societies, I continue to advocate for "Sustainable Science." My ultimate goal is to ensure that our research does not just stay in the lab, but actively contributes to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable world for future generations.

Center for Environmental Toxin and Emerging-Contaminants Research: A Global Hub for Environmental Excellence

CENTER Established in 1999  at Cheng Shiu University has evolved into Taiwan’s premier institution for environmental analysis and technological innovation. Originally founded in response to the global dioxin crisis, the Center has spent over two decades safeguarding public health by bridging the gap between rigorous academic research and practical industrial application.

World-Class Accreditation and Technical Prowess

CENTER is defined by its unwavering commitment to precision. The Center is an international-grade facility, holding prestigious certifications such as ISO/IEC 17025 and official recognitions from the Taiwan Ministry of Environment (MOENV) and the Food and Drug Administration (TFDA). With a portfolio of over 1,600 validated analytical methods, CENTER possesses the technical capability to detect pollutants at ultra-trace levels, ensuring that even the most minute environmental threats are identified and managed.

Driving Industrial Transformation and Sustainability

CENTER is a powerhouse for industry-academia collaboration, managing an annual project portfolio exceeding NT$230 million. The Center plays a pivotal role in Taiwan’s journey toward Net-Zero Emissions by providing carbon footprint verification, greenhouse gas inventory services, and developing circular economy solutions like Biochar certification. Through these efforts, CENTER helps private enterprises and government bodies meet stringent ESG goals and global environmental standards.

A Global Nexus for Education and Diplomacy

Beyond its laboratory walls, CENTER is a leader in international academic diplomacy. Between 2022 and 2025, the Center collaborated with over 16 international teams from the USA, Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Notably, the Center has become a preferred destination for high-level talent cultivation, having successfully mentored four international graduate students through their Master’s and Doctoral dissertations. By hosting researchers from institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Indonesia, CENTER fosters a bilingual, multicultural environment that prepares the next generation of scientists for global environmental challenges.

Vision for the Future

As we look toward 2030, CENTER remains dedicated to "Sustainable Science." By combining ultra-trace analysis with real-time sensor technology and international collaboration, the Center continues to ensure a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable world for future generations.