Training professionals in environmental and occupational health at Western Kentucky University
The Environmental and Occupational Health Science Program at Western Kentucky University
This program at Western Kentucky University is training students to help improve worker safety and health in areas of Kentucky that really need it, especially in light of challenges like COVID-19 and natural disasters.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western Kentucky University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bowling Green, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862533 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This program at Western Kentucky University focuses on training undergraduate and graduate students in Environmental and Occupational Health Science to address the shortage of qualified professionals in underserved regions of Kentucky. The curriculum is designed to enhance worker safety and health, with support from various regional stakeholders including industries and first responders. The program emphasizes innovative educational strategies to prepare students for contemporary work exposures, including challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters. Graduates are expected to contribute significantly to improving health and safety standards in their communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are individuals seeking education and training in environmental and occupational health, particularly those from underserved communities.
Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in pursuing a career in environmental or occupational health may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could lead to a more skilled workforce that enhances worker safety and health in Kentucky's underserved areas.
How similar studies have performed: Similar educational programs have successfully addressed workforce shortages in health and safety fields, indicating a positive precedent for this initiative.
Where this research is happening
Bowling Green, United States
- Western Kentucky University — Bowling Green, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Ritchie Don — Western Kentucky University
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Ritchie Don
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.