Indira Nair
M.S. (Physics) Bombay University and Kansas State University
Ph.D. (Physics) Northwestern University.
Instructional Certificate, State of Pennsylvania.

I have taught about the environment for over 20 years, as part of science courses, and for general awareness. I have taught in the Department of Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University since 1978. Prior to that I taught physics, chemistry, and biology in Canevin and Hempfield High Schools in Pennsylvania. My research and studies are in the area of health risks, especially with reference to ionizing and low-frequency electromagnetic radiation; green design; ethics of science and technology; and education, particularly of science and engineering.

This marterial for this site is based partly on an environmental literacy course called "Science and Technology for the Environment" I have taught at Carnegie Mellon since 1989. Garrick Louis (now on the faculty at the University of Virginia) and Sharon Jones co-taught and developed significant aspects of the course as graduate students. Andrea Sterdis, Jennifer White, Patrick Gurian, Jeff Rosenblum, Katie Kroehle, and Jenni Nettik have all contributed significantly. Over 5000 students have been part of the course over the years and left their imprints on this work. My daughters, Nandita and Sarita have always been my guides in teaching. Sarita's contributions to my learning in the areas of environmental justice, Native American history, and issues of water development and water rights is invaluable to me.

A grant from the National Science Foundation (Division of Undergraduate Education) made the writing of this material and creation of this website possible.