DURHAM, N.C. – Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment announces the promotion of Yan Lin to assistant research professor, effective July 1, 2024. Since 2019, Lin has served as a postdoctoral associate at Duke University, earning recognition for his research, teaching and leadership in environmental health. 

During his tenure as a postdoctoral associate, Lin has conducted research at the intersection of environmental chemistry and sustainability. His work on environmental pollutants and their impact on ecosystems has helped advance the understanding of complex environmental challenges. Lin’s research areas include the health effects of air pollution and climate change, molecular mechanisms linking environmental pollution and disease, identification of novel exposure and health biomarkers, and early prevention of chronic disease caused by environmental pollution. 

Lin earned his Ph.D. in environmental health sciences from University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) with a dissertation on the ecological impacts of industrial pollutants. His research has been published in leading peer-reviewed journals, including Environmental Science & Technology.  His interdisciplinary approach has informed his research methodology, driven discovery and promoted holistic solutions to environmental issues. Beyond his research accomplishments, Lin has mentored undergraduate and graduate students, guiding their research endeavors and inspiring emerging environmental scientists.  

“We are pleased to promote Lin to a faculty position in recognition of the breadth, consistency and rigor of his scholarship, mentorship and ability to address--simultaneously--human health, animal health and environmental health,” said Lori Bennear, Stanback Dean of the Nicholas School of the Environment. One Health/Planetary Health is one of the Nicholas School’s research priority areas, along with climate science and nature-based solutions, marine and coastal systems, and energy transition. 

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