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Research

At the Microbes and Social Equity (MSE) working group, our research explores the intricate connections between microbial communities and social equity issues. We investigate how microbiomes, both human and environmental, interact with the world around us, affecting everything from agricultural practices to health outcomes and environmental sustainability. Our work is interdisciplinary, drawing on fields such as microbiology, anthropology, ecology, nutrition, and environmental science to address pressing global challenges.

Our research is built upon significant collaborative efforts, as highlighted by the following key publications that have helped shape our work:

Ishaq et al. 2019 (PLOS Biology):  This foundational paper, co-authored by 18 researchers from various disciplines, introduces the concept of connecting microbiome science with social equity. It emphasizes how microbial exposure across ecosystems and human societies has a profound sociopolitical dimension, urging scientists to integrate these critical perspectives into their work for meaningful impact.

Read the full paper here

Ishaq et al. 2021 (mSystems): This publication, co-authored by 38 researchers, expands on the earlier work by delving deeper into the microbial components of social, environmental, and health justice. It provides a comprehensive review of the intersections between microbial systems and the societal factors that affect them, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches to global challenges.

Read the full paper here

 

These collaborative works form the backbone of our ongoing research, bringing together diverse perspectives to explore the role of microbes in social equity.

Research Areas

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Agriculture and Food Systems

We investigate the critical roles microbes play in agriculture, from soil health and sustainable farming to how food systems impact microbial communities.

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Bioethnography

This area focuses on understanding how microbial and human communities intersect through a cultural and anthropological lens. Bioethnography helps us explore the social, environmental, and health implications of microbial research.

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Diet and Gut Health

We delve into the ways diet influences the gut microbiome and how these interactions impact health and social equity. Our research highlights the importance of nutrition in shaping microbial ecosystems within the human body.

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Early Life and Vaginal Health

From prenatal health to early microbial exposures, this research area studies how the maternal and infant microbiomes contribute to long-term health outcomes. We emphasize the importance of early-life microbial communities in both maternal and child health.

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Environment

The environment shapes microbial communities, and vice versa. We explore how climate change, pollution, and other environmental stressors influence microbial ecosystems and the broader implications for human and ecological health.