Environmental Epidemiology
Environmental Epidemiology examines the pattern of diseases associated with ambient, household, industrial, and occupational exposures as well as environmentally induced illness in society.
With a renewed public health focus on climate change and environmental justice issues, the field of Environmental Epidemiology is growing! Research in environmental epidemiology focuses on disease risk, progression, and mitigation through identifying how a myriad of environmental exposures (e.g. air pollution, water contamination, tobacco use, industrial pollutants, etc.) impact health across the life course. Faculty in the Environmental Epidemiology track conduct a variety of research projects focusing on exposomics, joint exposures, gene-environment interaction, and environmental health disparities. Our faculty often work in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, and research teams through Johns Hopkins, other universities, and institutions worldwide. Much of our research on environmental justice issues is supported by the Hopkins Center for Health Disparities Solutions.
A significant component of the Environmental Epidemiology track is the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes Data Analysis Center (ECHO DAC). The ECHO DAC is a joint effort between JHU and RTI International researchers with expertise in epidemiology, statistics, informatics, data and systems management, and pediatric outcomes and exposures including those found in the physical, chemical and social environment.
The Environmental Epidemiology track hosts an enthusiastic group of MHS, ScM, and PhD students as well as postdoctoral fellows involved in research in risk assessment and public health practice. Our past trainees have successfully transitioned into academic, local and federal government, and industry positions.
In addition to the required coursework, students are required to attend monthly Environmental Epidemiology Journal Club meetings to encourage discussion of current topics with both faculty and students. These meetings are interdisciplinary and foster exchange of information between faculty and students of several departments. The Journal Club is of particular benefit to students preparing for comprehensive exams and keeps advanced students abreast of current literature in the field. The Journal Club also provides students with experiences in public speaking, exposure to current research, and development of critical thinking and logic related to the scientific methods.
We hope that you will consider applying to our program.