Kevin Smiley

Dr. Kevin Smiley is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Louisiana State University. His research investigates how social inequalities intersect with environmental change, disasters, urban development, and health outcomes. Using mixed methods, he examines climate justice, racial disparities in disaster impacts, and urban sustainability.

Education: PhD in Sociology (Rice University, 2017).

Research Focus: Dr. Smiley's work connects environmental risks (e.g., flooding, industrial pollution) to community vulnerability along racial and economic lines. His co-authored book Market Cities, People Cities contrasts urban trajectories in Copenhagen and Houston. Recent NSF-funded projects analyze climate attribution in disaster aid allocation and fuel access during hurricanes.

Media & Recognition: Research featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, and Weather Channel. Awards include NSF CAREER grant and Early-Career Fellowship from the National Academies.