October 16, 2025
Dr. Lauren Eaves
Lauren Eaves, PhD, assistant professor of environmental sciences and engineering (ESE) at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health and research scientist at the UNC Institute for Environmental Health Solutions (IEHS), has been named to the de Beaumont Foundation’s 2025 list of 40 Under 40 in Public Health.
The de Beaumont Foundation announced its Class of 2025 this week after reviewing nominations from hundreds of professionals working to benefit state or local public health across the country.
“The 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 is a high-achieving, passionate group of professionals whose accomplishments and experience showcase the very best of the public health field,” said Brian C. Castrucci, DrPH, president and CEO of the de Beaumont Foundation. “I look forward to working with them to advance health outcomes in communities across the nation.”
Eaves, who is an alumna of both the Bachelor of Science in Public Health and doctoral programs at the Gillings School, was recognized for her interdisciplinary research that integrates epidemiology, toxicogenomics and geospatial analysis to investigate how environmental chemical exposures, social vulnerabilities and climate stressors shape health outcomes—particularly in women and children. As co-lead of the Training and Mentorship Division at IEHS, Eaves manages the QUEST program, a ten-week immersive research experience designed to support undergraduates from diverse backgrounds in pursuing environmental health careers. In addition to her academic work, Eaves serves her community as a lactation consultant, combining her expertise in maternal and child health with a passion for family-centered care.
“I’m honored to be named to the de Beaumont Foundation’s 40 Under 40 in Public Health Class of 2025!” said Eaves. This recognition reflects the support, collaboration and inspiration I’ve been fortunate to receive from so many mentors, colleagues and peers in ESE, Gillings and beyond. I’m thrilled to be part of such a remarkable group of leaders shaping the future of public health and can’t wait to learn from them through the program.”
In addition to Eaves, the program’s honorees include program managers, researchers, community engagement professionals and senior leaders in state and local health departments, universities, nonprofit organizations and the private sector. A panel of public health leaders evaluated nominees for their leadership, vision, cross-sectoral collaboration and contributions to their community’s health. Through this recognition and a one-year professional development program, honorees of the 40 Under 40 program will build a robust network, learn from their peers and amplify the impact of their work.
For more information about the 40 Under 40 in Public Health, including a full list of honorees, visit www.debeaumont.org/40Under40.
Contact the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health communications team at sphcomm@unc.edu.
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