Rachel McQueen’s primary research focus relates to the development and retention of odour in textiles. This involves the development of methods to examine the growth of skin microflora within textiles, interaction of odorous molecules with textile fibres and sensory detection of body odour emanating from fabrics. Her research takes a holistic approach involving human wear trials to collect body odour on fabrics, in addition to investigating the development of laboratory-based test methods in order to reliably assess proposed odour-control technologies in the textile industry. Other research interests include moisture transport through textiles and assessment of user needs toward improving clothing comfort and protection in the workplace. Previously, her research included the investigation of decontamination of pesticides from clothing and the degradation of chemical protective clothing due to decontamination practices.

Teaching

Graduate Students

Jennifer Beaudette (PhD)
Chloe Simmons (MA)
Deidre Hackman (MSc)
Mansi Sharma (MSc)
Michelle Closs (MSc)
Utkarsh Sharma (MSc)

Courses

HECOL 170 - Introduction to Textiles

An introductory exploration of the origin, creation and use of textiles in our world. Chemical and physical properties of fibres and fabrics are introduced and an understanding of how these properties influence various clothing and textile end uses is developed.

Fall Term 2025

HECOL 472 - Environmental Sustainability in Textiles

Examination of the clothing and textiles industry and the environmental impact of textile production and consumption. Topics may include but are not limited to, circular economy, life-cycle thinking, environmental labelling, sustainable fibres, sustainable fabric and finishing technologies, consumption patterns and post-consumer use. Prerequisite: HECOL 170 and 60 units. Not to be taken if credit received for HECOL 372.

Fall Term 2025

HECOL 572 - Environmental Sustainability in Textiles

Examination of the clothing and textiles industry and the environmental impact of textile production and consumption. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor. Not to be taken if credit received for HECOL 372 or 472.

Fall Term 2025

HECOL 691 - Professional Seminar 1

This professional development seminar is one in a series that provides an introduction to graduate study in the Department of Human Ecology, and to career development and professional issues in human ecology. Includes topics such as the field of human ecology, what it means to be a graduate student, and student-supervisor relationship. Typically taken in the first year of the graduate program.

Fall Term 2025

HECOL 692 - Professional Seminar 2

This professional development seminar is one in a series that focuses on career development and professional issues in human ecology. Includes topics such as writing for academic and non-academic audiences and research ethics. Typically taken in the first year of the graduate program.

Winter Term 2026

HECOL 693 - Professional Seminar 3

This professional development seminar is one in a series that focuses on career development and professional issues in human ecology. Includes topics such as the process of the doctoral program and comprehensive and candidacy exams. Typically taken in the second year of the doctoral program.

Fall Term 2025

HECOL 694 - Professional Seminar 4

This professional development seminar is one in a series that focuses on career development and professional issues in human ecology. Includes topics such as funding agencies and preparing grant proposals, non-academic careers for PhDs, and post-doctoral fellowships. Typically taken in the second year of the doctoral program.

Winter Term 2026

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