E. Christian Wells

E. Christian Wells is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology and Director of the Center for Brownfields Research & Redevelopment at the University of South Florida. He is also a Residential Learning Faculty Fellow. With a background in applied environmental anthropology, his work bridges social and natural sciences to address human and environmental health in underserved communities.

Education:

• Ph.D., Anthropology, Arizona State University
• M.A., Anthropology, Arizona State University
• B.A., Anthropology (Archaeological Studies, Latin American Studies), Oberlin College

His research spans environmental pollution, brownfields challenges, land use legacies, sustainable development, water/wastewater management, and science-policy interactions. Projects involve critical infrastructure resilience, environmental justice, and community-driven solutions in the U.S., Central America, and the Caribbean.

Recent publications focus on organizational resilience, water governance, and environmental equity. He has secured over $25 million in grants, including EPA and NSF funding for brownfields transformation, water infrastructure, and anti-racism initiatives.

Scientific Awards:

• AAAS Fellow
• 2025 Comitas Award for Social Innovation
• 2024 Community Advocate Award
• 2023 Environmental Justice Spirit of Excellence Award
• 2023 Wesley W. Horner Award
• 2011 Black Bear Award

Grants: Highlights include the EPA’s 'Brownfields to Healthfields' ($14.9M), NSF’s anti-racism curriculum project ($2M), and RWJF’s scenario planning grant ($125k).