Desiree Bliss

Desiree Bliss is a BBCS postdoctoral researcher in the Combrink Lab at the University of Arizona, where her work focuses on understanding how ecological systems, climate change, and zoonotic diseases interact. Using spatial simulations, Desiree studies the risks posed by mosquito-borne viruses in Arizona, combining her background in disease modeling with a commitment to developing practical conservation strategies. As part of her research, she is working with state (ADHS) and county officials to create models and maps of mosquito and West Nile forecasts to be used by managers to control disease outbreaks.

Desiree earned her Ph.D. in Ecology from Ewha Womans University, where she developed innovative ecological models to tackle complex challenges in animal conservation. She integrates advanced geographic and ecological modeling techniques into her research, utilizing her skills in GIS and R programming.

During her undergraduate degree at The Evergreen State College in Washington state, she was introduced to the Nisqually River Education Project. This program, focused around communities within the Nisqually River Watershed, inspired a love of teaching environmental education. One of her favorite activities was the salmon toss – the Nisqually Tribe’s salmon hatchery would freeze their salmon in giant blocks, which would then be dropped from a crane to shatter it, then students would throw the salmon back into the river, returning the salmon’s nutrients back to the watershed. This activity brings together ecological concepts, sense of place and appreciation for nature, and handling gross things – all of which kids love!

As a Lovejoy Center CAB fellow working working with Ironwood Tree Experience, she wants to continue that same spirit of nature appreciation and science learning. The Sonoran Desert was an important part of her childhood, and she hopes to pass on my love of the desert to the next generations.