Carina Jane Gronlund

Dr. Carina Jane Gronlund is at the leading edge of research in environmental health, serving as a research assistant professor at the University of Michigan. Her work is pivotal in understanding the intricate relationships between social, economic, and health factors, as well as built environment characteristics and air quality, in shaping vulnerabilities to extreme weather events such as heat waves and heavy precipitation. Dr. Gronlund's research is instrumental in guiding urban adaptation strategies to climate change, focusing on how cities can effectively respond to the challenges posed by extreme heat, elevated pollen levels, and intense rainfall. Dr. Gronlund's academic journey is marked by a robust foundation in the biological sciences, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. She further honed her expertise with a Master of Public Health (MPH) and a PhD in Environmental Health Sciences. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to address complex environmental issues with a comprehensive perspective, integrating insights from various fields to develop effective solutions. Her research interests are deeply rooted in environmental epidemiology, where she explores the vulnerabilities of populations to climate-related stressors. By examining the interplay between pre-existing health conditions and environmental factors, Dr. Gronlund seeks to identify the most at-risk communities and develop strategies to mitigate their exposure to adverse climate impacts. Her work is crucial in informing public health policies and urban planning initiatives aimed at enhancing resilience to climate change. Dr. Gronlund's contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as she collaborates with policymakers and community stakeholders to translate her findings into actionable strategies. Her commitment to improving air quality and understanding the social dimensions of climate vulnerability underscores her dedication to fostering healthier, more sustainable urban environments.