Dr. Watkins is a scholar of public health whose work aims to illuminate social and structural barriers that individuals face in achieving their full health potential in order to inform efforts that promote health equity.

She approaches her research with an interdisciplinary lens and employs a variety of methodological approaches, including epidemiological and econometric techniques, qualitative methods, meta-analysis, and spatial analysis. A core component of her research program is engagement with public and policy stakeholders and public dissemination of her work.

She began her role as Community Engagement Director of the ISRP in January 2023. She has been very active working with the Portland Harbor Community Coalition regarding PCBs in Portland Harbor, Oregon. She also has been working closely with schools and communities in Vermont regarding PCBs.