My research on marine mammals and the maritime industry takes me to the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans. I earned my BSc in marine science at Eckerd College, where I worked in marine mammal pathobiology and stranding rehabilitation. I followed my degree with years of commercial and private research in the field, including work in fisheries, bathymetry, acoustics, marine mammal research and marine mammal stranding response. Along with field operations, I design research surveys and customize tools for data collection. In 2023 I began pursuing my master’s degree at Heriot-Watt University, where I’ve been fortunate to continue my research investigating anthropogenic impacts to large cetaceans.

I am a mariner with over 14 years in commercial and private maritime operations. I hold a 100-ton Master Merchant Mariner Credential with hands-on experience in 17’-142’ vessel operation, maintenance, and repair. I have served as a maritime emergency responder, successfully parbuckling capsized small craft, dewatering sinking vessels, pulling grounded vessels into astern and alongside tows in daylight and nighttime, and rescuing persons from unsalvageable vessels. I operate in demanding conditions from shallow depths to rocky bottom and rough seas. My training includes Level 2 whale disentanglement, fast boat rescue, advanced firefighting, radar and ARPA operation, and bridge resource management.

I am an advocate for safety and equality in the marine science field. I serve as a mentor to early career scientists and interns, supporting them in their journey in STEM. Equality and retention in the marine sciences are known challenges, especially for LGBTQIA+, women, and minorities. The goal for all my research and field operations is to create a positive environment and provide our team with the skills and opportunities to succeed in their careers. Funding is an inherent obstacle to inclusion, and I advocate strongly against unpaid or underpaid internships. During my tenure with Soundwatch, I increased our intern stipend by 200% to better support future researchers in marine mammal science.

The marine environment is dynamic, and safety at sea is something I’m particularly passionate about. I bring my maritime background to research operations, ensuring that all of my vessel crew are trained above and beyond the standard while developing robust field skills they can rely on in the future. Safe vessel operation is a valuable skill for field research, and I support my team’s development through securing funding for their participation in Motorboat Operator Training Courses and as a resource for Merchant Mariner Credential applications.