Professor Goldfarb began as a physical chemist studying reactive molecules and molecular fragments, using the newly developed technique of infrared matrix isolation spectroscopy. Early on, his interests focused on environmental problems and issues of science and public policy. He was a founder of the "Science for the People" chapter at Stony Brook. His book, "Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Controversial Environmental Issues" was first published in 1983, the 10th and final edition with Ted as author came out in 2003.