Jeanine M. Pfeiffer

Dr. Jeanine M. Pfeiffer is a Lecturer in the Humanities and Environmental Studies departments at San José State University. She holds a Ph.D. in Ecology from the University of California, Davis (2004), an M.Sc. from UC Davis (1993), and a B.A. from Boston University (1988). Her research focuses on ethnoecology, biocultural diversity conservation, and gender-environment linkages, with fieldwork in Indonesia and California. Pfeiffer has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles, literary works, and books, including works on community-based research with Indigenous tribes. Notable grants include NSF and NIH funding for ethnobiological networks and biodiversity studies. She has been nominated for Pushcart Prizes and has produced documentaries on environmental issues. Her work bridges ecological science with cultural preservation, emphasizing participatory methods and Indigenous knowledge systems.

• Education: Ph.D. Ecology (UC Davis, 2004), M.Sc. (UC Davis, 1993), B.A. (Boston U., 1988)
• Awards: NSF Student Fellowship (2000–2003), Pushcart Prize nominations (2018–2019)
• Grants: NSF RCN-UBE (2008–2011), NIH-ICBG (2008–2010)

Research Interests:

• Traditional ecological knowledge preservation
• Gender roles in environmental stewardship
• Community-based conservation strategies
• Biocultural diversity in agroecosystems

Publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, blending scientific rigor with creative writing to highlight human-environment interdependencies. She co-leads initiatives documenting Indigenous resource management practices and has collaborated with tribes like the Yurok and Tado communities.