INDIANAPOLIS – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last week announced the selection of Dr. Jessica (Jit) Weir to serve on the national Science Advisory Board (SAB). Dr. Weir is a Technical Environmental Specialist in the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s (IDEM) Watershed Assessment and Planning Branch, where she provides technical expertise for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) industrial permitting. She uses data analysis and modeling to support IDEM’s water‑quality initiatives, drawing on regulatory and ecological expertise.
“I am honored to join the EPA Science Advisory Board. My work in aquatic biology, permitting, and water quality assessment in Indiana has shown me firsthand how federal and state environmental policy shapes outcomes for Hoosier communities and ecosystems,” said Dr. Weir. “I look forward to bringing that grounded, evidence-based perspective to the board.”
Established in 1978, the SAB provides independent scientific advice to the EPA Administrator on the scientific basis for agency decision-making. The board plays a key role in advancing EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment. Most of the SAB’s preliminary work is done by subcommittees or panels focused on various environmental science topics. These groups are chaired by SAB members. Dr. Weir will take on the assignment on the Drinking Water Committee.
Dr. Weir is among four Hoosiers named to the 37-member board, representing the largest delegation from any state. Also appointed were Dr. Kyle Doudrick, Associate Professor at the University of Notre Dame; Dr. Shawn Gannon, Chief Toxicologist at the Chemours Company; and Dr. Jessica LaRocca of Corteva Agriscience.
“Dr. Weir’s selection reflects her deep technical knowledge and commitment to public service,” said IDEM Commissioner Clint Woods. “Having multiple Hoosiers on the SAB ensures that Indiana’s voice remains strong in national environmental discussions.”
Dr. Weir holds a B.S. and M.S. in biological sciences from Eastern Illinois University and a Ph.D. in environmental science from Ball State University. Her doctoral research integrated angler-collected data with machine learning models to predict the distribution of aquatic invasive species across the United States, establishing her expertise in environmental data analytics, fisheries science, and water quality modeling.
