Stephen Gasteyer

Dr. Stephen Gasteyer is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Michigan State University (MSU), with a joint appointment in AgBioResearch. He holds a PhD in Sociology from Iowa State University (2001), an MSc from Iowa State (1998), and a BA from Earlham College (1983). His research focuses on community development, natural resources management, and environmental justice, particularly regarding water access in the U.S., Tanzania, and Israel/Palestine. He explores issues like PFAS contamination, soil and water conservation, and the socio-political impacts of settler colonialism on resource management.

Education:

• PhD in Sociology, Iowa State University, 2001
• MSc, Iowa State University, 1998
• BA, Earlham College, 1983

Research Interests: Dr. Gasteyer’s work addresses water equity, environmental justice, and the intersection of colonialism and resource control. Recent projects include analyzing drinking water risks in Michigan, Palestinian water rights, and the effects of climate migration on conflict. His research often integrates interdisciplinary frameworks to address systemic inequities in resource distribution.

Key Affiliations:

• MSU African Studies Center
• American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program
• Institute for Public Policy and Social Research
• Freshwater Lab (University of Chicago)
• Palestinian American Research Consortium (PARC)

Grants and Collaborations: He has led projects funded by the USDA and NSF, focusing on water infrastructure equity and community resilience. His work bridges academic research with policy advocacy, emphasizing grassroots solutions to systemic environmental challenges.

Publications: His recent work includes studies on decentralized wastewater solutions, refugee health protocols, and decolonization through public transit in Palestine. Earlier publications address racial disparities in plumbing access and water storage practices in Dar es Salaam.