Summer Research Experience in Environmental Health (SREEH)

Yale University, New Haven CT

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Environmental health challenges in the 21st century demand a highly skilled workforce capable of leveraging cutting-edge technology, data-driven solutions, and scientific innovation to protect human health. To address this need, it is critical to cultivate a pipeline of creative scientists prepared to tackle emerging environmental health issues. The overarching goal of this R25 Summer Research Experience in Environmental Health (SREEH) program is to motivate and prepare undergraduate students in Connecticut (CT) to pursue higher education and careers in environmental health sciences (EHS). This will be accomplished by introducing them to major emerging topics and research methodologies, specifically: (1) artificial intelligence (AI)- and data-driven approaches to environmental health, (2) technological innovation in environmental monitoring, (3) cutting-edge advances in toxicology and exposure science, (4) the role of early-life environmental exposures in shaping disease prevention, and (5) innovative solutions using green chemistry and sustainable technologies. Participants will engage in hands-on research projects mentored by faculty members from the Yale Schools of Public Health, Medicine, Environment, and Engineering & Applied Science. Faculty will come from Yale’s leading research centers, including the Yale Superfund Research Center, the Yale Center for Perinatal, Pediatric, and Environmental Epidemiology, the Yale Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering, Yale Center for Geospatial Solutions, and the Department of Environmental Health Sciences (EHS) Mass Spectrometry and Metabolomics Facility. Collaborations with the CT Department of Public Health will provide students with exposure to real-world applications of environmental health research, including translational research to bridge laboratory findings with public health solutions. The SREEH program will offer an 8-week mentored, hands-on research experience to ten undergraduate students each year. The program will provide an intensive learning experience in hypothesis-driven research, classroom instruction on emerging topics (e.g., AI-driven environmental monitoring), scientific communication training, career development support, and opportunities to present research findings. Students will be recruited from universities across CT, and spend ≈80% of their time engaged in research activities, with the remaining time dedicated to career development including networking, and educational experiences. Students will also visit Yale research facilities and public health agencies to gain firsthand exposure to career opportunities in EHS. The program will culminate in a Student Research Day, during which each participant will present their research. All program graduates will be enrolled in the Yale SREEH Alumni Network, which will provide continued support for graduate school applications, career development, and ongoing engagement in the EHSs. An independent educational evaluator will assess program outcomes to ensure excellence, long-term impact, and continuous improvement in future cohorts.