Media Kit

Highlighted by the American Chemical Society as a prominent African American Chemist, Dr. Elissia Franklin is a dedicated scientist and research leader committed to advancing environmental health and beauty justice. With more than 10 years of research experience, she serves as a Research Scientist at Silent Spring Institute, applying her expertise in non-targeted analysis and mass spectrometry to investigate chemical exposures from consumer products, particularly those disproportionately affecting Black women and other marginalized groups. Her research contributes to developing intervention strategies and identifying safer alternatives, fostering community engagement and empowerment.

Dr. Franklin earned her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Purdue University, where her dissertation, "Incorporation of the Paternò–Büchi Reaction into Mass Spectrometry-Based Systems for Lipid Structural Characterization," advanced innovative lipid analysis techniques with implications for biomarker discovery in diseases like type II diabetes. Her doctoral research also led her to Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, as a Visiting Senior Research Scholar, where she developed novel liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry methods to probe lipid structural variations.

Her academic journey began at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. As an undergraduate, she conducted research in drug discovery for myotonic dystrophy type I, an inherited muscular disorder that affects muscle function and overall health.

Throughout her career, Dr. Franklin has actively contributed to the scientific community, presenting her work at esteemed conferences such as the Gordon Research Conference, the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE), and the American Society for Mass Spectrometry (ASMS). Her research has been published in respected scientific journals, including the Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry and Analytical & Bioanalytical Chemistry.

Beyond her laboratory work, Dr. Franklin is committed to science communication and advocacy. She founded The Research Her, a podcast and platform that translates complex scientific concepts into relatable and accessible knowledge, particularly for Black families. Through this initiative, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application, ensuring that science serves as a tool for empowerment and equity.

Recognized for her contributions to chemistry and environmental health, Dr. Franklin continues to champion research that addresses disparities in scientific representation and exposure risks, striving to create a more just and informed society.

Dr. Elissia Franklin, widely known as Dr. E, is a visionary creator, science communicator, and consultant dedicated to making complex scientific topics accessible and impactful. As the founder of The Research Her, a podcast and digital platform, she translates research on health-related topics into relatable, actionable insights for Black families and marginalized communities. Through engaging storytelling and expert interviews, Dr. E bridges the gap between academia and everyday life, ensuring that knowledge is not only informative but also empowering.

With over a decade of experience in scientific research and communication, Dr. E collaborates with brands, organizations, and influencers to develop strategies that promote consumer awareness and environmental justice. She has consulted on projects focused on reducing toxic exposures in beauty and personal care products, advising companies and advocacy groups on science-backed solutions that prioritize health and equity.

Dr. E’s expertise extends beyond the lab. She is a sought-after speaker, educator, and advocate passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists and changemakers. Whether through workshops, social media content, or strategic consulting, she works to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities and drive systemic change in the beauty and wellness industries.

Recognized by the American Chemical Society as a prominent African American Chemist, Dr. E merges her deep scientific knowledge with creative storytelling to spark meaningful conversations and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Her work has had a significant impact beyond the scientific community, resonating across media outlets, where she is recognized as a thought leader at the intersection of science, culture, and consumer advocacy.

Connect with Dr. E to learn more about her work in research, science communication, and consulting.