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Environmental Sciences and Society (ESS)

Through co-mentoring & experiential cross-training in applied natural & social sciences, the program in Environmental Science and Society (ESS) conducts interdisciplinary research that addresses urgent environmental challenges. Students will pursue actionable research to address environmental issues and their associated complex challenges through an integrated interdisciplinary applied perspective. Our research spans three core themes are:

  • Climate Change, Environmental Health, and Justice: We explore the intersection of climate risks, air quality, and social inequities, focusing on developing adaptation solutions that promote justice and resilience in vulnerable communities. Research includes analyzing the socio-political dimensions of urban disasters, climate migration, air pollution, and emissions reduction strategies, with a focus on equitable transitions.
  • Sustainable Ecosystem Management: We investigate how human activities impact ecosystems, from agriculture to urban environments, with a focus on sustainable practices. Ongoing projects explore the impacts of land use changes on ecosystem services and biodiversity, as well as policy strategies for promoting sustainable agriculture and urban green infrastructure.
  • Biodiversity and Disease Ecology: Our work explores the interactions between environmental change and species health. We examine how environmental shifts and management affect species interactions, invasive species ecology, and the emergence of zoonotic diseases in the context of global health.

Research Methods

Our research is underpinned by combining methodological approaches, allowing for a deeper understanding and synthesis of environmental and social systems. Key methods include:

  • Geospatial Analysis and Remote Sensing: We use geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing to model land use, climate impacts, and air quality, as well as ecological dynamics at various scales, from local to global.
  • Epidemiological, Ecological, and Emissions Modeling: We employ advanced modeling techniques to understand disease transmission, species interactions, emissions sources, and ecosystem processes, with the goal of informing conservation strategies, public health interventions, and climate mitigation policies.
  • Social Science Research Methods: Incorporating qualitative and quantitative approaches, including surveys, interviews, and ethnographic studies, to understand community perceptions, values, and behaviors related to environmental issues.
  • Participatory Research and Community Engagement: We emphasize community-based participatory research, working closely with local communities, Indigenous groups, and stakeholders to co-develop sustainable solutions tailored to the social and ecological contexts of diverse regions.

By integrating environmental and social sciences, we empower our alumni to effectively confront the urgent environmental challenges of our time, fostering innovative solutions that promote sustainability and justice across diverse communities.