Rachel Morello-Frosch
Rachel Morello-Frosch is an environmental health scientist and professor in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management and the School of Public Health. Her research examines race and class determinants of environmental health disparities among diverse communities in the U.S. Specifically, she focuses on environmental chemicals, climate change, drinking water, and linkages between environmental sustainability and social equity. In collaboration with researchers, regulatory scientists, and community partners, Professor Morello-Frosch has developed transparent, scientifically valid tools for assessing the cumulative impacts of environmental and chronic social stressors. These tools are being used to improve regulatory decision-making and advance environmental justice. She is also applying similar methods to inform the implementation of climate change policies in California. Dr. Morello-Frosh’s work has influenced government agencies, foundations, community organizations, the California legislature, the state Department of Public Health, and the EPA, as well as shaping the academic fields in which she works.
As Division Chair and Equity Liaison in ESPM, and DrPH Program Director in the School of Public Health, Professor Morello-Frosch has collaborated with faculty colleagues, staff, and students to advance the diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) mission of UC Berkeley, through development and implementation of DEI plans for her units and programs. She has made key contributions in her departments to improving recruitment, retention, and mentoring of faculty, post-docs, and students from under- represented groups. In addition, she teaches graduate and undergraduate courses on structural determinants of health disparities, in which she encourages students to develop their scientific skills as well as their ability to translate research results to improve policy and support environmental justice communities.