Emma Lonnia

Biography:

I am a PhD researcher in the School of Earth and Environment at the University of Leeds, investigating volcanic air pollution from the Reykjanes volcanic system in Iceland. My work examines how volcanic emissions disperse, interact with urban surfaces, and contribute to fine particulate pollution in both Iceland and the UK, with a growing interest in how these particles may affect the brain and increase dementia risk. Bridging environmental hazard science and public health, I previously completed an MSc(Eng) in Environmental Engineering and Project Management, where I explored how air quality information can be made more accessible to underserved communities by co-designing a multilingual mobile application for ethnic minority users in the UK. I also worked as a research assistant on projects examining digital inequities and ethnic disparities in dementia care. These experiences shaped my emerging interest in integrating volcanology, atmospheric science, and neuroscience to better understand the neurological effects of air pollution, improve hazard forecasting, and support more equitable health protection. Beyond research, I enjoy creating art, learning languages, and spending time outdoors.

Qualifications:

  • BSc Environmental Science, University of York, 2024.
  • MSc(Eng) Environmental Engineering and Project Management, University of Leeds, 2025.

Research Interests:

Volcanic air pollution; emissions dispersion; PM₁; lava-urban surface interactions; neurotoxic particles; dementia research; environmental hazard science; public health communication; field work – Iceland.

Project Title:

Volcanic air pollution from Reykjanes eruptions in Iceland.

LinkedIn Profile

www.linkedin.com/in/emma-lonnia-530791322