The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has tapped Battelle for one of three blanket purchase agreements to tackle research on chemicals that may interfere with the endocrine system in humans and animals.

 

Under the five-year agreement, Battelle and two other companies will compete for call orders with a combined ceiling of $44 million to identify potential endocrine disruptors and evaluate hazards, exposures, and health risks.

 

The research zeroes in on substances that affect reproductive function, growth, and development by disrupting key hormonal systems—including estrogen, androgen, thyroid, and the brain’s hypothalamus-pituitary interactions.

 

Battelle, which completed a previous contract in 2024 totaling over $6 million, has been a leader in this field since first receiving a related EPA contract in 2001. Its work has covered pesticides, pharmaceuticals, phthalates, bisphenol A, parabens, and antimicrobials such as triclosan, while helping the EPA develop and validate screening assays and tests for endocrine bioactivity and adverse effects.

 

Most recently, Battelle has focused on systematic literature reviews, advanced in vitro methods, and in vivo chemical evaluations under regulatory guidelines—aiming to streamline assessments of common chemicals and reduce unnecessary animal testing. The company also provides the EPA with expertise in data analytics, statistical analysis, and ecotoxicology.

 

“We are pleased to be able to carry on this scientific work, tapping into Battelle’s broad range of health research, biology, data science, environmental science, and quality assurance specialists,” said Battelle Program Manager Vincent Brown. “Our team looks forward to continuing to advance the understanding of endocrine disruption, publishing sound results and helping the EPA achieve its mission.”