Jessica da Silva

Jessica da Silva is a Principal Scientist at the South African National Biodiversity Institute. Her research focuses on integrating evolutionary genomics into wildlife management and policy, with a particular emphasis on genetic monitoring and landscape genetics; however, she regularly employs multidisciplinary approaches to better understand species’ adaptations and evolution. She is the Genetic Lead for South Africa’s National Biodiversity Assessment—the country’s primary tool for monitoring and reporting on the state of biodiversity.

Jessica is an active member of the IUCN SSC Conservation Genetics Specialist Group and the Coalition of Conservation Genetics, contributing to global efforts to advance the use of genetics in conservation. She also plays a key role in capacity development, supervising students and leading training programs in molecular and conservation biology, including laboratory techniques and the calculation of genetic indicators. Her work bridges research, policy, and practice, ensuring that genetic tools are translated into meaningful conservation outcomes.