Michelle Turner Receives Prestigious Tony McMichael Award for Environmental Epidemiology

ISGlobal researcher Michelle Turner has received the 2026 Tony McMichael Mid-Term Career Award from the International Society for Environmental Epidemiology (ISEE), recognising her contributions to environmental epidemiology across research, mentorship and scientific leadership.

The Tony McMichael Mid-Term Career Award is a major international recognition in the field of environmental epidemiology. Created in memory of pioneering environmental epidemiologist Tony McMichael, it recognises mid-career scientists who combine scientific excellence and innovation with mentorship, leadership and a commitment to applying environmental epidemiology to improve public health. 

A career advancing environmental and occupational health

Over the course of her career, Turner’s research has helped advance understanding of how environmental and occupational exposures affect human health, with a particular focus on air pollution, cancer and occupational hazards. Her work has included large-scale studies on the long-term health effects of air pollution and, more recently, has explored how climate change and the shift towards more sustainable ways of working can affect workers’ health.

She currently coordinates INTERCAMBIO, a five-year Horizon Europe project investigating how climate change, sustainable working practices and green jobs affect workers’ physical and mental health. Through participatory and intervention-based research across sectors including construction, healthcare, public transport, renewable energy and waste management, the project aims to generate evidence that can inform future occupational health policies.

"It is a great honour to receive an award that bears Tony McMichael's name. His work continues to inspire generations of environmental epidemiologists, and I am grateful to the colleagues who have been part of this journey,” says Turner. “This recognition reinforces the importance of conducting novel research that can help protect health in the face of environmental and climate challenges." 

Scientific leadership and impact beyond research

Turner has also contributed to major international assessments that help translate epidemiological evidence into public health action. Most recently, she played a leading role in the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs Volume 138 on automotive gasoline and some oxygenated additives. The evaluation concluded that automotive gasoline is carcinogenic to humans, providing an important evidence base for cancer prevention and occupational and environmental health.

Beyond her research, Turner has taken on prominent roles within the international environmental health community. She has served on several World Health Organization advisory groups and has contributed to ISEE for many years, including through her role as Secretary-Treasurer.

Mentorship and support for the next generation of environmental epidemiologists have also been a central part of her scientific career. Her nomination highlighted her commitment to mentoring early-career researchers, promoting equity in environmental health and strengthening the connection between scientific evidence and policymaking.

The award was presented during the 2026 ISEE Annual Conference, held in Munich, Germany, from 30 August to 2 September 2026.