B.S., Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida
Ph.D., Ocean Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz

My approach to teaching science goes beyond imparting knowledge. Rather, my goal is to support the development of critical thinkers across a suite of topics including geographic information systems, biology and ecology, and conservation and natural resource management. I aim to bring students to a new level of understanding of how our world functions, and create confident and competent scientists and citizens. I approach teaching the way I approach research – by using tools and methods with a demonstrated history of success. My teaching is therefore focused on guided inquiry-based learning, and around the concept of teaching less and learning more. In my classes, I use interactive and inquiry-based learning, with the goal of having students think critically and engage in active learning, and I focus on giving students the opportunity to learn from each other through structured peer-to-peer learning. This kind of interactive discussion helps to solidify concepts and expose less understood topics that require further focus. These kinds of interactive methods focus on integrating different types of learning techniques for different types of learners, and the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills to contextualize science in real-world situations.

My research focuses on the development of science-based solutions to sustainability issues in the ocean, and my expertise is in the application of spatial tools, such as satellite tracking and oceanographic modeling. I use these tools to understanding the distribution of large marine predators, how these predators interact with ocean processes, and how this knowledge can be applied to managing predator populations, human activities and ocean resources. Through my research, I aim to fulfill three goals: (1) conduct innovative science that is applied to conservation and management issues, (2) build knowledge and capacity in underdeveloped regions of the world, and (3) use research as tool for teaching and engaging students. I was chosen as a 2016 Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship in Ocean Sciences, awarded to early career scientists in ‘recognition of distinguished performance and a unique potential to make substantial contributions to their field’.