BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza is an applied conservation biologist with over 20 years of experience researching endangered species and advancing marine ecosystem restoration. Her primary research focuses upon the biology, behavior, abundance, and movement of sharks using novel methodologies. Dr. Mikki uses a multiple-stakeholder strategy to advance science-based conservation initiatives across disciplines. She has led and participated in 40 marine research expeditions, including the regions of Darwin, Cape Town, Manaus, Hong Kong, Nova Scotia, Belize and the eastern coast of the United States. Dr. Mikki is the co-founder and Executive Director of Ocean First Institute, a Boulder-based nonprofit dedicated to marine research, conservation, and education. The Institute has reached thousands of students in local Front Range schools, as well as 170,000 students in 35 countries and 46 US states. The Institute has received national recognition for establishing high-profile conservation projects and providing compelling educational programming. My research has been broadcast by the BBC, National Geographic Society, Discovery Channel Shark Week, and CBC National Radio Canada. She is also the President-Elect of the American Elasmobranch Society and a National Fellow of The Explorer’s Club.