The Centre for Environmental Research and Justice (CERJ)

CERJ is dedicated to tackling the critical issue of environmental pollution, which has escalated to alarming levels on a global scale.

CERJ brings together leading academics across three University of Birmingham Colleges (Life and Environmental Sciences, Medical and Dental Sciences and Arts and Law) to formulate interdisciplinary responses and action to critical - and yet still growing - issues around environmental pollution, and its adverse effects on environmental and human health. CERJ's bridging of specialisms coupled with innovation into regulatory and governance settings has pioneered groundbreaking approaches to evaluate chemical pollution risks and to advocate for the fundamental right to a healthy environment.

The vision for CERJ is ambitious yet compelling: to evolve into a premier reference hub for ‘One Health’, championing holistic approaches that transcend disciplinary boundaries. 

Our flagship 1 year interdisciplinary course is the first to offer students a comprehensive approach to tackling pollution by combining 21st century toxicology with a foundation in environmental regulation.

Offered through the Centre for Environmental Research and Justice (CERJ), our course delivers an essential skillset for resolving the present-day challenges faced by communities coping with industrial pollution. This unique programme fills a gap identified by both students seeking real-world impact and partners in community organisations, green industry, and government. Sustainability-minded organisations across sectors have a growing need for team members who can navigate the complexity of the environmental landscape, and understand suitable and appropriate responses that fit within key regulatory frameworks.

Graduates of this programme will develop understanding for not only what cutting-edge science is revealing about toxic chemicals, but also the legal and policy structures by which lasting change is made. This combination provides an outstanding interdisciplinary base for our MSc holders to deliver real-world impact as scientists, researchers, regulators, and changemakers within governments, regulatory agencies, industry, and NGO's.