Deborah J. Young received her Ph.D. (1982) and M.S. (1979) in plant pathology from the University of Arizona. She received her B.A. (1974) in biology and Spanish from Indiana University. She has worked in outreach and extension positions throughout Arizona, from the Mexican border to the ponderosa pine forests of northern Arizona. Her interests are in translational science related to grassland, chaparral and forest ecosystems.

As Associate Director, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, she provides leadership for the coordination of statewide outreach programs from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. This position works closely with Department Heads, School Directors and County Extension Directors to foster interdisciplinary team efforts, coordinated programs and to stimulate grant activities.