Dr. Aelion has carried out research in the area of biodegradation of organic contaminants, including gasoline, jet fuel and chlorinated solvents, in groundwater and vadose zone soils. Her research focused on the development of novel tools for assessing remedial technologies, including 13C stable isotopes, and naturally-occurring radiocarbon (14C), and the application and development of enhanced remediation systems for contaminated ground water. She has carried out extensive research assessing the impact of land use, including golf course development, on coastal environments, pesticide removal and nutrient cycling. Her most recent research focuses on heavy metals in residential soils, primarily arsenic, lead and mercury, and their potential associations with negative health outcomes in children, including intellectual disabilities in susceptible populations. This research incorporates environmental justice and environmental health sciences research.