Subject: How do I become an environmental research scientist?

I have a bachelor's degree in social work.  I am interested in a specific type 
of research--research involving how the environment affects child development.  
Examples of what I mean are mental health disorders, behavioral disorders, 
physical disorders, anything such as schizophrenia, autism, cerebral palsy, 
attention deficit, etc that could be caused or influenced by anything in the 
environment.  Environmental influences could refer to: nutritional 
deficiencies, environmental chemicals, prenatal insults, lead poisoning etc.  I 
would like to be a part of carrying out this research and actually applying the 
results to help children improve upon these disorders.   I've seen that the 
NIEHS has created specific research centers for this, which are specifically 
tied to community involvement.  So, what should I do with the education I 
already have, that will help me move towards this goal?  Could you give me an 
idea of how realistic it is to expect a career in such a specific type of 
research?  Would it be more likely that I would spend my life working in 
another area given that the positions are so competitive?  And what is a 
typical day like for these types of researchers?  I can't seem to find much 
information about this type of science on the internet, if you have some links 
you could provide me with, that would be great.  PLEASE HELP! Thanks!

Re: How do I become an environmental research scientist?