The Social Science Research Institute (SSRI) is pleased to welcome two new cofunded faculty members to Penn State. By helping to support faculty members, SSRI is demonstrating its dedication to interdisciplinary research in the social and behavioral sciences.
Kyle Aune, assistant professor of biobehavioral health, College of Health and Human Development
Aune’s research interests includes using high-dimensional climate and environmental data, data science, and spatial statistical techniques. Through community-engaged research, he seeks to address climate and environmental justice issues, enhance estimates of climate danger exposure, and look into the environmental and climate determinants of infectious diseases. He received his PhD from John Hopkins University in exposure science and environmental epidemiology.
Yan Lin, associate professor of geography, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences
Lin’s research interests include focusing on the relationship between space, place, and health. She investigates the relationship between social and environmental determinants and human health, paying special emphasis to disparities in cancer, data uncertainty, community environmental health, and spatial modeling. She received her PhD from Texas State University in geography.
At the local, national, and international levels, SSRI supports and encourages research that tackles important human and social challenges. Through their affiliate program and funding mechanisms, the institute supports more than 500 faculty members spread over nine campuses and more than 60 co-funded faculty members spread across nine colleges.