Exposure Science

Exposure science studies the transfer of hazardous agents from the environment into our bodies, and methods by which exposure pathways can be minimised. The Exposure Science Team within ERG specialises in air pollution exposure assessment, forming a bridge between the measurement and modelling teams.

Research

We research methods for improving air pollution exposure estimates and methodologies, moving from a static, residential address-based approach through to one that truly reflects the air that an individual breathes as they go about their daily lives. Our aim is to reduce exposure misclassification and demonstrate stronger, better defined links between air pollution and health outcomes in the fields of epidemiology and toxicology, with particular focus on vulnerable groups.

Much of our research utilises sensory devices to measure individuals’ exposure to air pollution to explore links between environmental factors, daily activities and health outcomes. The very large datasets produced in such studies requires specialist data analysis techniques.

Air pollution exposure is poorly understood as a public health risk, and reduction presents a method of protecting human health beyond air quality improvement. It integrates with other health metrics, such as active travel, road safety and greenspace, and we are also researching how this integration can be used to encourage behavioural change and public health protection in an engaging and effective way.

The majority of our research is in collaboration with international multidisciplinary teams ranging from social science and policy development, through to cohort and population health studies. We have a global reach, with ongoing studies based in Australia, Nepal, China and across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Education

Our team plays an active and diverse role in public health and environmental education across multiple programmes and levels:

Teaching and Module Leadership

• Co-led the module Planetary Health and Emerging Environmental Challenges within the Master of Public Health (MPH).
• Contribute to the module Exposure Assessment within the MPH.
• Lead the Social and Behaviour Change theme within the iSTEMM PUBH6001 module Environmental Pollution and Health.
• Contribute to the I-Explore STEMM Public Engagement module.

Supervision and Mentorship

• Supervise internships for MSc in Science Communication students and PhD students.
• Supervise MPH student projects

Specialist Course Delivery

• Coordinate and deliver the Introduction to Air Quality course, funded by Impact on Urban Health (IoUH).

Environmental Health Communications Research

Find out more about the portfolio of projects led by Dr Kayla Schulte and Andrew Grieve.