Jessica Hua is an associate professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology.

Dr. Hua leads a group of scientists on working to understand the threats that amphibians face. She and her team study how to use non-traditional resources–like art, children’s books, and citizen (community science)–to make science more accessible to broader audiences.

An excerpt from the “About Me” section of her lab’s website: “I come from a refugee family who epitomizes the concept of the American Dream. As such, I will always value the vast opportunities afforded by education. I love what I do and feel so fortunate to have discovered a career path that allows me to have a platform to pay it forward by working to provide opportunities to others. 

Outside of work, I love the outdoors and I am an avid reader. I’ve played sports all my life so I will take any opportunity to play or watch sports. Basketball will always be my favorite but ultimate, gaelic football, disc golf, and pickleball are not far behind!”

Dr. Hua’s first book with Adventure Publications is coming in 2026 and is titled Reptiles & Amphibians for Kids.