Community Engagement And Partnerships Are The Center Of Our Environmental Health Research

USC - UCI Partnership

The new USC–UCI partnership brings together leading expertise in environmental health to tackle the pressing challenges facing Southern California’s 13 million residents. By combining USC’s strengths in community engagement and translational research with UCI’s expertise in environmental toxicology and exposure science, the collaboration will advance research on PFAS, air pollution, heat, and wildfire smoke. Together, the institutions will drive innovative, solution-oriented science, expand mentorship and career development for emerging researchers, and foster partnerships that improve health outcomes across diverse and dynamic communities in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

CEC Director Jill Johnston’s move from USC to UCI broadens outreach to additional communities with EH concerns while continuing to serve the CEC’s existing stakeholders. You can see the ongoing work Dr. Johnston is doing at UCI at her Community and Environment Research Lab.

Community and Environment Research Lab

Community Partners and Coalitions

Community partnerships and coalitions are essential for translating research into action. Through sustained collaboration among academic institutions, community-based organizations, and policy leaders, we co-develop studies, interventions, and strategies that address local environmental and health challenges. These partnerships enhance the relevance, equity, and impact of our work, ensuring that research outcomes lead to tangible benefits and lasting improvements in community well-being. Check out all of our community partners and coalitions below!