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Join us for Science on the Bayou with Dr. Jill A Jenkins (USGS WARC) and Dr. Erik Johnson (Audubon Delta) to learn about the complex impacts of human actions on our ecosystems! Happy Hour: 5:00 PM
Talks: 6:00 PM
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Meet the Speakers!
Dr. Jill A. Jenkins is a Research Microbiologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center (WARC). Originally from upstate NY, she earned a B.S. at Rochester Institute of Technology, a M.S. in Microbiology and Biochemistry at Idaho State University, and a Ph.D. at Memphis State University. Through a post-doctoral position at the Univ. of Tennessee’s Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, she acquired the training in biotechnologies employed at WARC for environmental conservation studies. Research questions focus on improving ecosystem assessments through the development and application of novel biomarkers at the cell and molecular level. Data can be generated from organisms in any taxon, from bacteria to mammals.
Talk description: One Health is a transdisciplinary approach that considers the relationship between three pillars: humans, animals, and the environment. Water is an essential resource for human and animal survival, with ground and surface waters at risk from such challenges as changing climate dynamics, overuse, and contamination. Dr. Jenkins will present some study hypotheses and approaches to investigating how cells can give us insight into what is happening on the landscape/waterscape. Topical areas include the Buffalo National River, Critical Minerals, PFAS, and Harmful Algal Blooms.
Dr. Erik Johnson earned PhD in wildlife and fisheries management from Louisiana State University in 2011. He then joined the National Audubon Society as a conservation biologist which soon led to his appointment as the Director of Bird Conservation for Louisiana. He is now the Director of Conservation Science for Audubon Delta where he directs a multidisciplinary team in identifying, prioritizing, and implementing science-based conservation actions across LA, MS, and AR as well as developing monitoring and research programs to understand effects of landscape use and habitat change on bird populations.
Talk description: Habitats across what is now the United States have been altered immensely over the last 400 years compared to precolonial times, causing massive shifts in ecological processes and wildlife population dynamics. The built landscape today presents a myriad of threats to birds and other wildlife including habitat conversion, invasive species, artificial lighting, human infrastructure, and climate change, which has led to the loss of about 3 billion birds since 1970. Dr. Johnson will provide an overview of these threats, as well as initiatives for recovering bird and wildlife populations in which you can support and participate.
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As always, Science on the Bayou welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to join us as we learn about the research and development in our community!
This event is free to attend. Food and drink will be available for purchase from our gracious hosts at Adopted Dog Brewing! Non-alcoholic and non-beer options are available in addition to the variety of beers they offer.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Adopted Dog Brewing, 329 Dulles Dr, Lafayette, LA 70506-3007, United States,Lafayette, Louisiana
