Scientists
Dr. Jean DeMarco
Senior Scientist
"One Health research is critically important because it recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment. By studying and understanding these intricate relationships, we can address and mitigate emerging infectious diseases, prevent zoonotic outbreaks, promote sustainable environmental practices, and ultimately improve the overall well-being of both humans and the planet. This approach to research not only enhances our ability to respond to global health threats but also paves the way for a healthier, more resilient, and harmonious relationship between humans, animals, and the environment."
Scientists Bio
As a senior scientist at EcoHealth Alliance, Dr. Jean DeMarco brings over a decade of international scientific research experience to direct zoonotic and emerging infectious disease research initiatives in West Africa. Using human and animal sampling and a mixed-methods research approach, she studies disease exposure and transmission risk to anticipate disease outbreaks and prevent new pandemics. A trained molecular biologist with a passion for global health equity, Jean seeks to build laboratory capacity and scientific leadership through partnerships with in-country researchers.
Jean began her career in global health as an HIV Community Health Advisor with the United States Peace Corps in Ethiopia in 2011, and over the next decade, she went on to coordinate disease research projects in Ethiopia, Malawi, and Liberia for organizations such as USAID, Médecins Sans Frontières, the University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Since joining EcoHealth Alliance in 2021, Jean has directed the DTRA-funded “What’s the Fever?” acute febrile illness clinical research project in Liberia, which focuses on identifying anthropozoonotic threats to human health beyond commonly reported diseases.
After graduating with a B.S. in Biology from St. Lawrence University in 2001, Jean earned her Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Penn State University in 2009 and a Masters in Public Health from SUNY Albany in 2013. At EcoHealth Alliance, Jean uses her training in quantitative and social scientific research in order to investigate disease risk and improve global health outcomes.
