Jessica Beckham

Jessica Beckham, Ph.D. serves as a Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Ecology within the College of Sciences at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, M.S. in Biology from the University of North Texas, and a B.S. in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin. At UTSA, she teaches courses in Entomology, Environmental Systems, and Environmental Zoology, bringing her research expertise directly into the classroom.

Dr. Beckham's research focuses on the conservation of native pollinators, particularly bumble bees in Texas. Her work addresses critical questions about how these important pollinators persist in increasingly urbanized landscapes. She has led multiple research projects examining the distribution, taxonomy, and ecological requirements of declining bumble bee species including Bombus sonorus and Bombus pensylvanicus, both designated as Species of Greatest Conservation Need by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Her publication record shows a consistent focus on bumble bee conservation across multiple dimensions - from genetic analysis of populations to urban habitat utilization and climate change impacts. The research demonstrates an evolving trajectory from basic distribution mapping toward more complex questions about species relationships, conservation genetics, and future climate scenarios. Her work bridges fundamental science with practical conservation applications.

Dr. Beckham has been actively engaged in public outreach, presenting her research at numerous community events, workshops, and conferences throughout Texas. She has collaborated with various organizations including the City of Denton, Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning Area, community gardens, and conservation groups to advance understanding of bumble bee ecology and conservation needs.

Her research program has been supported by grants from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, including State Wildlife Grants. She has mentored students in field research and involved the public through citizen science initiatives, creating a reporting system for bumble bee sightings that engages community members in conservation efforts.

Dr. Beckham has established herself as a key resource for bumble bee identification and conservation in Texas, developing educational materials and identification guides that serve researchers, conservationists, and the general public interested in native pollinators.