Julie C. Ellis, PhD, Wildlife Ecologist

Wednesday, June 3

Julie C. Ellis, PhD is a wildlife ecologist and conservation leader whose career covers seabird research, wildlife disease response, and collaborative programs connecting science, policy, and public engagement. She has dedicated over twenty years to leading innovative initiatives that protect wildlife and strengthen partnerships in wildlife health and conservation. Her work includes directing SEANET, a citizen-science network monitoring seabird mortality along the Atlantic coast; founding the Northeast Wildlife Disease Cooperative to support regional wildlife health responses; and launching Penn Vet’s Wildlife Future Program, a major partnership with the Pennsylvania Game Commission focused on emerging wildlife diseases. Julie currently works in Penn Vet’s One Health office.

Julie will present on her recently launched project, the Accessing Urban Nature Initiative (AUNI). By 2050, nearly 70% of the global population is expected to live in urban areas. Though cities are built for people, wild animals also inhabit them. Recent research shows that a connection to nature can enhance human health and strengthen community engagement, yet many Philadelphia residents lack access to these benefits. The goal of the AUNI is to foster a sense of stewardship and curiosity about the natural world among students and communities at Penn and throughout the city, ultimately improving the lives of urban humans and wildlife.

Lunch: bring your lunch, beverages, and dessert are provided this week. Lunch starts at 12:00; program begins at 12:30.