Research activities within the Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine have grown steadily during the past several years with leadership provided by Dr. John Dement. The level of extramural funding has significantly increased. After completing a Ph.D. in Epidemiology at UNC with Dr. Dement as her research mentor, Dr. Hester Lipscomb joined the research faculty. Dr. Lipscomb also holds a B.S. in nursing and a graduate degree in Health Behavior and Health Education. Dr. Epling, Dr. Darcey and Dr. Moon are clinical faculty members working as part of the research group. Residents have the opportunity to work with members of the Epidemiology Research Group to develop research careers if desired. Research opportunities at the UNC School of Public Health are virtually limitless and opportunities are also available with adjunct professors at the EPA and NIEHS.

Each resident participates in one major research project as well as several minor research projects pertinent to the on-site practicum experience. The resident is expected to play a major part in the design, conduct and evaluation of such projects. Projects at practicum sites include experiences in the programmatic approach to solving occupational health problems (including ergonomic problems, health promotion programs and health hazard control). Trainees are expected to work closely with management, occupational nurses, industrial hygienists, ergonomics specialists and safety personnel in carrying out such projects.