I am a marine zoologist, fisheries scientist, and conservation biologist. My research currently focuses on identifying bycatch solutions for marine wildlife that also support the livelihoods of fishermen and coastal communities. My appointments include Fisheries Scientist on the U.S. NMFS Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Team, member of the U.S. Atlantic Large Whale Reduction Team, and member of the Expert Panel for the International Whaling Commission’s Bycatch Mitigation Initiative.
Conservation Biology
Fisheries Science
Invertebrate Zoology and Phlyogenetics
Business Management
Boston University - PhD, Biology (2018)
Stanford University, Graduate School of Business - MS, Business Management (2001)
University of Maryland - MS, Marine Zoology (1997)
Boston University - BA, History (cum laude) (1985)
I collaborate with fishermen, engineers, marine biologists, governments, and others to evaluate novel fishing practices, while also working internationally to promote commmunity-based solutions in fisheries management. In addition, I maintain the Global Bycatch Exchange (bycatch.org) which was recognized by a Katerva Award in Ecosystem Conservation. In addition to my current research focus, I have spent many years advancing conservation objectives on land and in ocean environments, particularly in the South Pacific and Latin America. As part of this work I have logged hundreds of hours diving in Asia, the south Pacific, and the Atlantic, assessing marine biodiveristy to make the scientific case for their conservation. Futhermore, I have used these and other approaches to create marine and terrestrial protected areas and establishing connunty-based businesses as alternatives to large-scale environmental destruction.
