The exposome: cracking the science about what makes us sick from Coursera

What are the causes of disease? We know that most diseases result from a combination of genes and environment (nature and nurture). Our genes alone do not determine our fate. For most complex diseases, externalities - environmental factors in the broad sense - are more important. This includes our living and working environments, diet, social support and stress, pollution, and exposure to infectious agents. Exposome research is about discovering the non-genetic drivers of health and disease.

Derived from the term exposure, the Exposome represents the totality of exposures we face throughout our lifetime. It also represents the biological responses that arise from external exposures.

In this course, 7 researchers from Utrecht University and/or the NWO Gravitation programme Exposome-NL will offer their expertise. We will introduce you to the Exposome concept; why it’s important; how we measure the exposome; and the data sciences steps needed to establish associations with health outcomes. This course will conclude with reflections on what is needed to advance this nascent and transformative field of research.

Exposome research requires transdisciplinary approaches. Therefore, this MOOC will be of interest to current and prospective students and researchers in the fields of public health, environmental health, life sciences, clinical medicine, geosciences, humanities, and social and behavioural sciences.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Exposome concept

Welcome! Here you will find general information about the course. The learning objectives, the structure, and the requirements of completion will be presented to you. We will kick off with an introductory lecture by Prof. dr. Roel Vermeulen, a peer discussion assignment and a short quiz.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Examines the Exposome concept, which is transformative in nature and emerging in several fields

Taught by researchers from Utrecht University and NWO, who are recognized for their work in Exposome research

Develops foundational knowledge and methodological approaches central to Exposome research

Explores the Exposome concept in a multi-modal manner, including videos, readings, and discussions

May be useful for students pursuing a career in public health, environmental health, or clinical medicine

Requires students to come in with some background knowledge

Reviews summary

Exposome: clear scientific foundation

According to students, "The exposome: cracking the science about what makes us sick" is a largely positive and highly recommended course, especially for those seeking an excellent introduction to the field. Learners consistently praise its clear and well-structured content, which makes complex topics accessible. The instructors are lauded for being knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging, effectively conveying the importance of exposome research. While providing a solid foundation for further study, some views suggest it's best for a broad overview rather than deep specialization. The course's interdisciplinary approach and up-to-date materials are also significant highlights.

Integrates various perspectives, offering a holistic view of environmental health.

"The interdisciplinary approach was particularly strong, bringing together various perspectives on environmental health."

"I appreciated the course's unique perspective, integrating various viewpoints on environmental health."

"The course's broad scope was helpful, touching on multiple relevant scientific fields."

Offers a solid foundation, ideal for those new to exposome research.

"For those who are not familiar with exposome research, this course provides a good foundation for understanding."

"I found it perfect for gaining a solid foundation in this emerging field."

"The depth of content was appropriate for an introductory level, making complex ideas digestible."

"This course is a solid starting point for further study."

Content is well-organized, making complex scientific topics easy to digest.

"The course material was very clear, structured, and informative."

"I found the content well-structured and presented, making complex topics accessible."

"The modules are well-organized, and the assignments help reinforce learning."

"The concepts were explained in a logical flow, building a comprehensive understanding."

Instructors are experts, passionate, and highly effective in their delivery.

"The lecturers were excellent, enthusiastic and explained all topics in a very well-understandable way."

"I appreciated how engaging the lecturers were, making complex topics accessible."

"The lecturers are great and passionate about their research."

"The content was delivered clearly and concisely by knowledgeable instructors."

Provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of the Exposome concept.

"This is a great course for getting an overview and introduction to exposome concepts, research, and future directions."

"I gained a comprehensive introduction to the Exposome, covering its theoretical foundations, methodological approaches, and future directions."

"I found it an excellent introduction, covering all aspects in an accessible and understandable way."

"It provides a good overview of the Exposome concept and its relevance in health research. Perfect for anyone looking for a solid foundation..."

May be too superficial for those seeking advanced or specialized knowledge.

"This course is only an advertisement for the institution and a very superficial introduction to this topic."

"If you are really interested, go read some books on epigenetics or the exposome. This course is not worth your time."

"I found the course to be a good overview, but not detailed enough for advanced researchers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The exposome: cracking the science about what makes us sick with these activities:

Read Environmental Health Perspectives

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Provides up-to-date research and perspectives on environmental health.

View Priorities on the Health Horizon on Amazon

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Review the latest issue of Environmental Health Perspectives.
Identify key articles relevant to exposome research.
Summarize the main findings and implications of these articles.

Explore Exposome Data Analysis Tools

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Develops proficiency in using software and techniques for analyzing exposome data.

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Follow online tutorials on data analysis tools.
Apply these tools to a small exposome dataset.
Discuss the results and identify challenges in data analysis.

Discuss Exposome Measurement Techniques

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Fosters collaboration and exchange of ideas on various methods used to measure exposome components.

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Read assigned articles on different measurement techniques.
Participate in group discussions to share knowledge and perspectives.
Develop a summary of key points and challenges in exposome measurement.

Four other activities

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Solve Epidemiology Problems

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Strengthens analytical skills and develops a deeper understanding of epidemiological principles.

Browse courses on Epidemiology

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Identify different types of epidemiological studies.
Calculate measures of disease frequency and association.
Interpret and evaluate epidemiological data.

Create an Exposome Data Visualization

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Develops skills in presenting complex exposome data in a visually appealing and informative manner.

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Choose an appropriate dataset and visualization tool.
Design and create the visualization.
Interpret the data and identify patterns and trends.

Develop an Exposome Research Proposal

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Provides an opportunity to apply course concepts to a real-world research project.

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Define the research question and objectives.
Identify the relevant exposures and outcomes.
Develop a data collection and analysis plan.
Write the research proposal.

Develop a Literature Database on Exposome Research

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Builds a comprehensive resource for future research and reference.

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Conduct a systematic search of relevant literature.
Extract key information from selected articles.
Organize and summarize the findings in a database.

Career center

Learners who complete The exposome: cracking the science about what makes us sick will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Environmental Health Scientist

Environmental health scientists identify and evaluate environmental factors that may affect human health. They develop and implement strategies to prevent or mitigate the adverse effects of environmental exposures. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a comprehensive overview of the exposome concept and the methods used to measure and analyze exposome data. This course can help environmental health scientists to develop the knowledge and skills needed to conduct research on the exposome and its impact on human health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Health Scientist

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and other health problems in populations. They design and conduct studies to identify risk factors and protective factors for disease development and progression. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a strong foundation in the principles and methods of exposome research, which is essential for understanding the role of environmental and lifestyle factors in disease causation. This course can help epidemiologists to develop the skills and knowledge needed to conduct cutting-edge research on the exposome and its impact on human health.

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Toxicologist

Toxicologists study the adverse effects of chemicals and other toxic substances on human health and the environment. They develop and implement strategies to protect people and the environment from exposure to harmful substances. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a foundation in the principles and methods of exposome research, which is essential for understanding the role of environmental exposures in disease causation. This course can help toxicologists to develop the skills and knowledge needed to conduct research on the exposome and its impact on human health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Toxicologist

Public Health Nutritionist

Public health nutritionists promote healthy eating and physical activity to prevent and manage chronic diseases. They develop and implement nutrition programs and policies that aim to improve the health of populations. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a solid understanding of the role of diet and other environmental factors in disease development. This course can help public health nutritionists to develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and evaluate effective nutrition interventions.

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Biostatistician

Biostatisticians apply statistical methods to design and analyze studies in the health sciences. They work with researchers to develop and implement statistical models that can be used to identify risk factors for disease, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and make predictions about future health outcomes. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a strong foundation in the principles and methods of data science, which are essential for biostatisticians. This course can help biostatisticians to develop the skills and knowledge needed to conduct research on the exposome and its impact on human health.

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Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as air and water pollution, hazardous waste management, and climate change. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other organizations to develop and implement policies and technologies that protect the environment and human health. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a solid understanding of the role of environmental factors in disease development. This course can help environmental engineers to develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement effective environmental protection measures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Health Policy Analyst

Health policy analysts develop and evaluate policies that aim to improve the health of populations. They work with policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders to identify and address health disparities and promote healthy behaviors. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a comprehensive overview of the exposome concept and the methods used to measure and analyze exposome data. This course can help health policy analysts to develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and evaluate effective health policies.

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Environmental Consultant

Environmental consultants help businesses and organizations to comply with environmental regulations and to reduce their environmental impact. They develop and implement environmental management plans, conduct environmental audits, and provide expert advice on environmental issues. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a solid understanding of the role of environmental factors in disease development. This course can help environmental consultants to develop the knowledge and skills needed to advise clients on how to reduce their environmental impact and protect human health.

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Industrial Hygienist

Industrial hygienists identify and evaluate workplace hazards that can affect the health of workers. They develop and implement strategies to control these hazards and to protect workers from exposure to harmful substances. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a solid understanding of the role of environmental factors in disease development. This course can help industrial hygienists to develop the knowledge and skills needed to identify and control workplace hazards and to protect workers from exposure to harmful substances.

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Health Educator

Health educators develop and implement educational programs and materials that promote healthy behaviors and lifestyles. They work with individuals, groups, and communities to raise awareness about health issues and to encourage people to make healthy choices. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a solid understanding of the role of environmental and lifestyle factors in disease development. This course can help health educators to develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and evaluate effective health education programs.

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Data Analyst

Data analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. They use their findings to make recommendations and to develop solutions to business problems. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a strong foundation in the principles and methods of data science, which are essential for data analysts. This course can help data analysts to develop the skills and knowledge needed to work with exposome data and to identify trends and patterns that can be used to improve public health.

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Risk Assessor

Risk assessors evaluate the risks of exposure to hazardous substances and other environmental hazards. They develop and implement risk management plans to minimize the risks to human health and the environment. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a foundation in the principles and methods of risk assessment, which is essential for risk assessors. This course can help risk assessors to develop the skills and knowledge needed to conduct risk assessments and to develop effective risk management plans.

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Grant Writer

Grant writers develop and submit grant proposals to funding agencies. They work with researchers and other stakeholders to identify funding opportunities and to write proposals that are competitive and persuasive. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a strong foundation in the principles and methods of grant writing, which is essential for grant writers. This course can help grant writers to develop the skills and knowledge needed to write successful grant proposals that will fund research on the exposome and its impact on human health.

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Clinical Research Coordinator

Clinical research coordinators manage and coordinate clinical research studies. They work with researchers, patients, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that studies are conducted according to protocol and that data is collected and managed accurately. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a foundation in the principles and methods of clinical research, which is essential for clinical research coordinators. This course can help clinical research coordinators to develop the skills and knowledge needed to manage and coordinate clinical research studies effectively.

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Science Writer

Science writers communicate complex scientific information to a general audience. They write articles, reports, and other materials that explain scientific discoveries and their implications for society. The Exposome: Cracking the Science About What Makes Us Sick course provides a comprehensive overview of the exposome concept and the methods used to measure and analyze exposome data. This course can help science writers to develop the knowledge and skills needed to write about the exposome and its impact on human health in a clear and engaging way.

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