Lillian Alessa

Dr. Lillian Alessa is a Presidents’ Professor at the University of Idaho’s Moscow campus and holds courtesy Faculty affiliate status at numerous academic institutions including Texas A&M, the University of Alaska System, and Joint Special Operations University. She is internationally recognized for her research and engagement in the areas of resilience and human adaptation to environmental change with an emphasis on security and defense. Her significant scientific contributions are evidenced by her biography, extensive publications, and diverse research projects.

She uses her expertise in social-ecological and technological systems science to develop ways to improve domestic resource security for community well-being, particularly through the incorporation of place-based knowledge to refine technological innovation. Several of her methods and tools have been incorporated into national plans and policies. Alessa was an appointed member of the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Advisory Committee for Environmental Research and Education, reporting to the Director of NSF.