The ELSA study is a community-engaged project to characterize individual, work-related, and neighborhood-level determinants of longitudinally-measured total personal air exposure to a suite of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) among an overburdened group of Hispanic women in San Antonio, Texas, and to understand the impact of these exposures on biomarkers of early respiratory health effects.

Project period: 3/1/2021–12/31/2024

The CAMP study investigates the presence of airborne microplastics and nanoplastics in Philadelphia, aiming to pinpoint potential urban sources of these particles across diverse neighborhoods. This innovative research employs a combination of intensive on-site environmental sampling, state-of-the-art analytical techniques, and geospatial data interpretation. This study will characterize the forms, varieties, and levels of microplastics and nanoplastics present in the atmosphere.

Project period: 6/18/2023–5/31/2025

The MELD study will investigate the impact of key factors—work hazards, workplace characteristics, and workforce details—on the inhalation exposure to microplastics in the laundry and dry-cleaning industry. The findings from this study will guide future intervention studies and training programs, aimed at mitigating microplastic exposure among workers in this industry.

Project period: 9/30/2023–9/29/2025

Cool Wave—Strengthening Community Capacity to Mitigate Urban Heat Exposure and Protect Children's Health in Philadelphia: PRCCEH (Active)

This study aims to translate scientific findings into practical measures for reducing residential heat exposure, particularly through the use of electric fans. We will distribute 240 fans to families living in neighborhoods highly vulnerable to heat. The study will assess the effectiveness of these fans in mitigating indoor heat exposure in homes. Additionally, we will use community forums to disseminate our results. This will aid in developing future strategies for implementing and evaluating public health action plans, grounded in multilevel and behavioral science theories.

Project period: 12/1/2023–11/30/2024

To gain insight into the combined effects of individual behaviors, built environment, and nighttime heat exposure on heat adaptation behavior in residential houses, we will establish a Community Advisory Board, comprising local residents and academic researchers; examine the collective impact of indoor home heat exposure, individual attributes, and built environment factors on individual-level heat adaptation behavior; and provide guidance on effective heat adaptation strategies to community leaders and vulnerable residents.

Project period: 1/16/2024–12/31/2025