Jessica Ball
About Jessica Ball
Jessica Ball serves as the Associate Scientist-in-Charge for Hazard Assessment and Communication at the U.S. Geological Survey's California Volcano Observatory, focusing on volcanic risk communication and hazard modeling.
Work at U.S. Geological Survey
Jessica Ball serves as the Associate Scientist-in-Charge for Hazard Assessment and Communication at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) California Volcano Observatory. She has held this position since 2018, focusing on geoscience communication to improve public understanding of volcanic risks. In addition to her role as Associate Scientist, she has been a Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow at USGS since 2014. Her work involves integrating hazards research with risk communication, particularly in relation to volcanic structures and hazards.
Education and Expertise
Jessica Ball earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the State University of New York College at Buffalo, where she studied from 2008 to 2014. She also holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from The College of William and Mary, completed between 2003 and 2007. Her educational background includes a study period at the University of Hawaii at Hilo in 2007. Ball specializes in volcanic hazard modeling and the stability of volcanic structures, utilizing forward modeling techniques to assess societal exposure to volcanic events.
Background
Jessica Ball has a diverse professional background that spans over a decade in academia and research. She has worked as a Teaching Assistant and Instructor at the University at Buffalo since 2012, alongside her role as a Research Assistant starting in 2013. Her experience in education complements her research focus on volcanic hazards and risk communication, allowing her to effectively translate complex scientific information for various audiences.
Achievements
In her capacity at the USGS California Volcano Observatory, Jessica Ball leads initiatives that connect scientific research with practical communication strategies. She focuses on translating volcanic hazard information for policymakers, civil authorities, and the public in California. Her work aims to enhance community preparedness and understanding of volcanic risks, demonstrating her commitment to public safety and education in the field of geoscience.