Our authors

Current Oceanbites Authors

Oceanbites is made possible by passionate marine science graduate students and post-grads from around the world who are dedicated to making scientific research accessible to broad audiences. Scroll down to learn more about the team and click on an author to see their recent posts!

Avatar photoBraden Furness

I am a recent MSc graduate in marine biology from Bangor University, where I studied population dynamics of elasmobranchs off the coast of Wales. My interests lie in ecological data analysis to understand environmental processes and identify natural patterns. However, nothing beats being in the field and interacting directly with the marine life.

avatar for Claire LaceyClaire Lacey

I am a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. My research interests cover many aspects of the ecology of marine mammals, in particular the factors that drive distribution and abundance of whales and dolphins, as well as the impacts of human activities on these animals. I've spent a lot of time in the field, conducting surveys (very lucky).  When back at my desk,  I use ecological modelling techniques to investigate relationships between animals and their environment.

Avatar photoGabrielle Ellis

I am a  recent PhD grad in Biological Oceanography at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. I study the community ecology of abyssal animals across space, time, and habitat, and I ask questions often with regard to human impact, specifically deep-sea mining.

avatar for Jasper MeagherJasper Meagher

I am a PhD student in Biological Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island, Graduate School of Oceanography. I completed my M.Res in Ocean Science at the University of Southampton, and completed my B.S. in Biology at Florida State University. I study deep sea coral communities and hydrothermal vent communities, especially with a focus on how physical and geological variable drive organism distribution, diversity, and change over time. When I'm not focused on school, I work with reptiles, and spend a lot of time making art for my friends and family!

avatar for Josiah GrzywaczJosiah Grzywacz

I'm a former oceanographer with an MSc in Biological Oceanography from UConn where I studied mixotrophy in marine ciliates. After a year in Poland (studying freshwater critters) I moved to California. I currently work as a lab technician at Stanford. Outside of science, I enjoy a good book, a long run, and frozen fruit.

Avatar photoKendra Devereux

I recently graduated with a masters degree in Marine Science from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. I am now working as an research fellow at the US Environmental Protection Agency in Washington, DC, where I focus on surface water quality concerns. My masters research evaluated the impacts of elevated salinity on bald cypress growing in forested freshwater tidal wetlands along the coast of North Carolina. In my free time, I love to travel, hike, read, and rock climb.

avatar for Massa PolasekMassa Polasek

I'm an MSc candidate in Host-Microbe Interactions and a former researcher in microbial ecology. I have a BSc in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from the University of Thessaly and live in Skopelos, a small but beautiful Greek island. I'm passionate about the intersection of marine science and climate change and love to paint!

avatar for Melinda EdieMelinda Edie

I am a student in the Master of Oceanography program at the University of Rhode Island and enjoy scuba diving, boating, walking my dogs, reading, and being with friends and family.

avatar for Rebecca LippittRebecca Lippitt

I am a Ph.D. Candidate in Geological Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island, Graduate School of Oceanography. I received my B.S. in Geology from Union College (NY). I study submarine volcanoes! I use the chemical composition of lava to figure out what is happening inside the Earth and how magma is formed. When I'm not working with rocks, I enjoy reading on the beach, cooking, and hiking.

avatar for Samantha GlassSamantha Glass

I am a Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Connecticut–Avery Point studying the marine carbonate system in the Arctic Ocean. My research focuses on biogeochemical changes occurring within sea ice as the Arctic continues to warm. Outside of my research, I enjoy hiking, running, aerial gymnastics, paddleboarding, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Oceanbites Alumni