![jessica arriens](https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Arriens-600x800.jpg)
I am interested in biodiversity and conservation research that has practical applications to global conservation policy. My thesis work uses genomic data and environmental modeling to explore genetic diversity in a tropical bird species, and then incorporate that research into a broad, effective conservation framework. In my previous life, I worked as a journalist, science teacher and media officer for the National Science Foundation.