Scientist Spotlight: Denise Moreno-Ramirez uses storytelling to shed light on toxic site impacts

Denise Moreno-Ramirez, a researcher with a passion for environmental science, has found innovative ways to shed light on the effects of neglected toxic sites on communities through her research. Growing up in Nogales, Arizona, she witnessed firsthand the unrecognized health crises in her community that were linked to historical contamination. As part of her PhD project titled “Voices Unheard,” she gathered firsthand accounts from locals to complement scientific data with personal narratives, emphasizing the overlooked histories of communities impacted by pollution.

This approach by Moreno-Ramirez highlights the importance of oral histories in scientific research, challenging the trend of impersonal data analysis. By integrating community stories into environmental health research, she brings a human perspective to scientific findings, which can inform policy decisions and address environmental injustices. Rib Davis, Chief of the Oral History Society, aptly summarizes this approach by stating, “The answer isn’t just in science. It’s in people.”

Moreno-Ramirez’s emphasis on inclusivity in scientific research has the potential to drive positive change and advocate for informed policies that benefit those most affected by environmental injustices. By understanding the environmental health impacts on communities through personal stories, researchers like Moreno-Ramirez are paving the way for healthier futures for marginalized populations. This innovative approach underscores the importance of listening to and valuing community voices in scientific research.