UL Research Institutes Hosts Second Annual Research Symposium

Research presentations focus on protecting human health and safety in the modern world

UL Research Institutes (ULRI) will host its Second Annual Research Symposium from Sept. 30 - Oct. 2, at the Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

This year’s theme is Protecting Human Health and Safety in the Modern World. What exactly does “modern” mean? In this context, we’re talking about the Anthropocene era: Anthropogenic chemicals — those deriving from human activities — are ubiquitous in today’s world, especially in and around our homes. They are found in materials used to construct and furnish buildings, the textiles we wear, the vehicles we ride in, and the processed foods we eat. Wildfires and natural disasters also send chemicals into the environment, impacting the health of communities and first responders.

“Our annual research symposium is dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration across sectors. We are excited to come together again this year to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time,” says Chris Cramer, Ph.D., ULRI interim president and chief research officer. “This gathering is an important opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to open science, as we share our discoveries with peers and partners to drive progress.” 

This invitation-only event brings together some of the brightest minds across communities to explore topics such as current and evolving health concerns and challenges, changes in communicating health science and safety issues, and sustainable advances in various industries. As part of the program, keynote speaker, Joel Tickner D.Sc., from the University of Massachusetts Lowell, will present on “Preventing Toxic Chemical Risks Through Safer Chemicals and Materials.”  Learn more about symposium and see the full agenda here.

“As we look ahead to the symposium, we are eager to see the powerful exchange of ideas and collaboration that will take place among our esteemed speaking participants and guests,” says Marilyn Black, Ph.D., vice president and senior technical advisor of ULRI’s Chemical Insights Research Institute (CIRI). “Together, we will explore new pathways and innovations in human health in the modern world, and we are confident that the discussions and connections formed will have a lasting impact on our shared mission.” 

The research presented at this year’s symposium will focus upon the mission of ULRI’s grand challenge #2: advancing individual and societal health in the 21st century. Panel and discussion topics include: 

• Human Health and Environmental Pollution 
• Resiliency for Health and Well-Being 
• Health and Science Reporting in the Current Cultural Climate 
• Sustainable Advances in Materials and Technologies 
• Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Fires 

After each panel, there will be breakout sessions designed to influence and shape future research directions and policy decisions. Throughout the event, there will also be an exposition area for each institute or office to showcase their work and for attendees to speak with researchers one on one.