PhD, PMP — Environmental Epidemiologist & Advocate for Environmental Justice
Dr. Thoin Begum is a nationally recognized environmental health expert with deep expertise in endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)—particularly phthalates—and their links to environmental contamination and health disparities. Her work spans with over a decade of experience in research, policy, and public engagement, she is committed to advancing environmental justice through science-backed consulting and community-focused solutions.
Currently serving as a Science & Technology Policy Fellow at the National Science Foundation, Dr. Begum leads national public engagement initiatives and shapes environmental research strategy. Her work bridges rigorous scientific analysis with policy impact—translating complex findings into clear, actionable insights for legal teams, policymakers, and community organizations.
Dr. Begum is an environmental epidemiologist with over a decade of experience investigating the health impacts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in both occupational and community settings. Her research focuses on how chemical exposures influence reproductive, developmental, and chronic disease outcomes.
She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Health Sciences from the University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY), with core expertise in exposure science, toxicology, and epidemiologic methods. Dr. Begum has led studies employing biomonitoring, air sampling, and analysis of national datasets such as the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Her findings have been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at major scientific conferences.
Currently, she serves as a Science & Technology Policy Fellow at the National Science Foundation and leads environmental health outreach for the South Asian Public Health Association. While Dr. Begum has not yet served as an expert witness, she has reviewed toxicological data in litigation contexts and is fully prepared to deliver scientifically rigorous, accessible analysis in legal settings.
Serving as an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science & Technology Policy Fellow at the National Science Foundation (NSF), Dr. Begum supports cross-cutting science policy initiatives focused on environmental research, public engagement, and strategic planning. She manages internal NSF communications and collaborates with leadership across directorates on policy priorities.
Conducted community-based research on hepatitis screening and structural racism in healthcare.
Led data collection and analysis for multiple National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded projects on cancer disparities in underserved populations
Led SAPHA’s national communications strategy, enhancing visibility and reach through strategic social media, newsletters, and engagement campaigns. Collaborated with public health professionals, researchers, and policymakers to amplify culturally informed public health messaging.
As a member of the DESI (Desis for Environmental Safety Interventions) team, Dr. Begum worked to advance climate and health justice in South Asian communities nationwide. She developed educational campaigns on air pollution, lead exposure, and housing-related environmental health risks tailored to South Asian populations.
Conducted dissertation research on environmental chemical exposures and social disability among American Indian older adults. Analyzed longitudinal health data to assess the impact of contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB), Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), on physiological and social outcomes.
Dr. Begum’s work goes beyond research—it’s about protecting people, especially those overlooked in traditional environmental health frameworks. She actively collaborates with grassroots organizations, public agencies, and law firms to ensure that science serves justice.
“Environmental health isn’t just about data—it’s about dignity. My mission is to make science work for the communities most impacted by environmental inequities.” – Dr. Begum
