Meet the students from the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Emily Kintzele
Program: Public Health, Ph.D., One Health concentration
Educational Background: Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from the University of Florida
What are your research interests?
I am interested in studying emerging environmental contaminants using animal exposure models and their effects on human, animal, and environmental health.
Why did you choose the University of Florida?
During my four undergraduate years at the University of Florida, I quickly grew to appreciate the breadth of opportunities that the university offers. One benefit of attending one of the top universities in the country is the ability to achieve an interdisciplinary approach to studies and collaborate with experts across various fields. The research being conducted in this department by inspiring academic figures is exciting to be part of, and I look forward to the opportunity to learn as much as I can during my time here.
Research Experience
- WATER Lab – Aquatic toxicology lab training with VOC exposures on zebrafish and microplastic analyses
- Byrne Lab – Pompe disease studies on Finnish Lapphund dogs
- UF in Kenya – Zoology, wildlife ecology and conservation, and plant physiology research in Kenya
- UF Biology Semester of Immersion – Treetop biodiversity, desert biodiversity, infectious disease and epidemiology research
What philosophy guides you in your education?
I believe that one should strive to continue learning throughout life, whether in an academic setting or otherwise. This opportunity to continue my education at such a high level is a privilege that I am grateful for and will not take for granted.
If you could solve one environmental or global health problem, what would it be?
If I could solve one global health problem, it would be climate change, as this issue increasingly affects all public and environmental health outcomes.
What are your career goals?
I hope to pursue a career as an independent researcher and continue working with environmental contaminants and toxicants to benefit public health and the health of our ecosystems. I am particularly interested in wildlife, so I hope to travel and use the knowledge I gain during the Ph.D. program to help animals in relation to public and environmental health.
Want to learn more?
If you’d like to learn more about the Ph.D. in Public Health with a concentration in One Health program, click here.
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