Jessica Balerna

Jessica Balerna, Ph.D., is an accomplished researcher and educator focusing on ecohydrology and environmental justice. Currently serving as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at the University of South Florida, Jessica's dissertation explores the interactions between freshwater depressional wetland conditions and water management practices in the Tampa Bay region. Jessica is also a SESYNC Graduate Pursuit Fellow, collaborating with a diverse team on socio-environmental justice in stream restoration projects. Previous experiences include internships at DC Water, Marriott International, and American University, where Jessica contributed to research, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement. Jessica holds a Ph.D. in Integrative Biology from the University of South Florida and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from American University.