Associate Professor of Biology
Colorado Mesa University
Dr. Johanna Varner is an ecologist, educator, and science communicator in Grand Junction, CO. Although she has past lives as a molecular biologist, an engineer, and a blueberry farmer, she found her true calling studying potato-sized alpine mammals called pikas. These animals are not only important indicator species in mountain ecosystems, but they are also an ideal platform for public engagement in science. Her science communication initiatives have included developing citizen/community science initiatives, collaborating with K-12 classrooms and museums, and working in a newsroom producing digital media content. Her efforts to promote dialogue and to reach underserved audiences were recently recognized with the AAAS Early Career Award for Public Engagement in Science and a national Ambassadorship through IF/THEN.