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Advancing translational research in environmental science: The role and impact of social science
Citation:
Eisenhauer, E., K. Williams, K. Margeson, S. Paczuski, K. Mulvaney, AND M. Hano. Advancing translational research in environmental science: The role and impact of social science. Environmental Science & Policy. Elsevier Science Ltd, New York, NY, 120:165-172, (2021). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2021.03.010
Impact/Purpose:
The impact of this research is to demonstrate how the social sciences have been integrated in three different divisions in USEPA ORD. This research produced a conceptual model to explain the distinction between social science research and the application of social science. This work will contribute to solutions-driven science in ORD and beyond.
Description:
Many of our environmental problems are complex and intertwined with social processes and human values. However, environmental research most often focuses on the biophysical and physical health dimesons of the problem. Agencies, such as the USEPA Office of Research and Development are trying to close this gap and integrate more social science research through the inclusion of social scientists on interdisciplinary teams. This study utilized focus groups conducted at three research labs to better understand how the social science influences research outcomes and project implementation. The study found that there were numerous barriers and facilitators to the integration of social science, as well as lack of clarity about the distinction between social science research and application of social science knowledge. We present a conceptual model for the integration and application of social science that clarifies these distinctions and describe the ways that social science improves the conduct of translational environmental science research.
URLs/Downloads:
DOI: Advancing translational research in environmental science: The role and impact of social science