The RDI Laboratory Department was initiated in 2004 to serve three core needs in Cambodia:

1. Make water quality testing services available to organizations, companies, and individuals to ensure drinking water is safe and the environment is protected
2. Research emerging environmental and public health issues, such as groundwater arsenic and pesticides in vegetables
3. Help train the next generation of Cambodian scientists about environmental management and protection of human and environmental health

Since 2004, laboratory capacity has improved annually with the acquisition of new instruments and the implementation of new standards and protocols. The RDI Laboratory Department has collaborated on dozens of research projects on a variety of environmental and public health topics. Additionally, dozens of Cambodian science students have passed through our doors – participating in research projects, learning lab testing methods, and some RDI staff moving on to graduate studies abroad.

Soil quality testing

Soil quality testing is also an important part of development to ensure efficiency in matching crops with existing soil conditions and optimizing fertilizer application on farms.
Click here to learn about how you can have your soil tested at RDI…

GIS and Data management

GIS and Data management are a key component in the monitoring of development projects and the communication of their results. The RDI GIS/Data Lab utilizes ArcGIS and Google Earth to track and plan development project activities, such as door-to-door arsenic education. Microsoft Access is used to design databases to enter, organize, and analyze data. Click here to learn more about the GIS/Data Lab…

Training and capacity-building

Training and capacity-building in the sciences is an important part of the development of Cambodia. RDI accepts many interns from local technical universities and gives them an opportunity to gain practical knowledge through laboratory testing and engaging in research projects.