Current Research

Electronic cigarette use inside of vehicles and associated secondhand and thirdhand exposures

E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that typically heat a liquid solution containing nicotine and chemical flavors to produce an aerosol, which is inhaled by the user. Dr. Sousan’s team will quantify e-cigarette exposure in the laboratory and vehicles.

A user-friendly and low-cost portable air pollution sensor for community-engaged research on environmental health disparities

The project explores the use of low-cost sensors, coupled with interactive web maps, to enhance underrepresented communities’ awareness of air pollution. The work is expected to enhance awareness and positively motivate underrepresented communities to take collaborative action in eliminating polluting sources.

HVAC Sampling and detection of COVID-19

COVID-19 pandemic has caused Institutions and Universities to shut down and move to an online model. Based on research and student feedback, face-to-face teaching is more effective, it provides a better experience to interact with the educator. To keep Universities and campuses open during Spring 2021, ECU is pursuing track tracing methods that could help identify positive cases of COVID-19 before they spread. One of the research projects to help estimate a possible COVID-19 case is by sampling HVAC systems inside student dorms.