About
Dr. Jessica C. Fisher is a Research Fellow at the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), University of Kent. Her work focuses on the intersection of human health, environmental change, and social inequalities, particularly exploring how biodiversity influences well-being through nature-based interventions. She holds a BSc in Zoology from Newcastle University, an MRes in Biodiversity, Evolution, and Conservation from University College London, and a PhD from DICE, where she examined human-nature interactions in urban Guyana.
Her research employs mixed-methods approaches, including participatory visual methods, structural equation modeling, and data visualization. Key areas include the design of nature-based health programs, the socio-cultural dimensions of biodiversity conservation, and the impacts of environmental changes on marginalized communities. She has contributed to projects funded by the Woodland Trust and European Research Council (ERC), such as the 'RELATE' initiative analyzing biodiversity's role in human well-being across socio-economic gradients.
Dr. Fisher is a Professional Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and chairs the Women’s Researcher Network. Her publications span high-impact journals like Nature Ecology and Evolution and Environmental Research, with a focus on topics including robotic biodiversity monitoring, participatory video in conservation, and equitable access to nature. She actively engages in policy advocacy, emphasizing the integration of social and ecological sciences to address planetary health challenges.
- Education:
- BSc Zoology, Newcastle University
- MRes Biodiversity, Evolution, and Conservation, University College London
- PhD in Human-Nature Interactions (Urban Guyana), DICE, University of Kent
- Affiliations:
- Member, Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE)
- Co-chair, Women’s Researcher Network
- Member, IUCN Commission on Ecosystem Management
- Grants & Projects:
- ERC-funded 'RELATE' project (2020–present)
- Woodland Trust-funded 'Woodland Biodiversity for Human Health and Wellbeing' (2020)
