The School of Biological Sciences Spring 2027 Seminar Series presents Dr. Jason Rohr

In this talk, Rohr will present nature-based solutions that address interconnected challenges among disease, agriculture, water, and poverty. His research shows that removing invasive aquatic vegetation in West African waterways can reduce schistosomiasis infections while improving water access and agricultural productivity. By converting this vegetation into low-cost livestock feed, compost, and fuel for biodigesters that produce fertilizer and off-grid energy, communities gain profitable incentives to sustain the nature-based solution. Building on these successes, Rohr’s team will expand efforts using climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and remote sensing to enhance resilience and equity across Africa and beyond, offering scalable, win-win strategies for global planetary health.