CONCURRENT DEGREE: THE POLICY CONNECTION - KAI ELGETHUN
Kai Elgethun (PhD, Environmental & Occupational Hygiene, 2004) is state health toxicologist for the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare. While many toxicologists work in a laboratory, Elgethun spends much of his time in the fi eld or boardroom, leading site investigations, quantifying health risks, and making recommendations for education and intervention. He also teaches in Boise State University’s Environmental and Occupational Health program.
Elgethun recently advised the governor's office on precautions on spring pesticides to control mosquitoes that can carry West Nile virus.
Elgethun was recruited from an academic position at Texas A&M University. "A great thing about EH/OH is that we have the flexibility to go back and forth between academic, private, and government sectors. Do not be afraid of becoming 'stuck' in a single track," he says. He predicts a bright future for graduates, as many governmental environmental health professionals are nearing retirement.