Mikki McComb-Kobza, Ph.D.

Mikki McComb-Kobza, is the Director and Chief Scientist of Ocean First Institute, an ocean conservation nonprofit organization that conducts impactful species conservation projects coupled with educational initiatives. She is the President of the American Elasmobranch Society which promotes the study of sharks, skates, rays and chimeras. She is faculty at CU Boulder’s Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and is a National Fellow of the Explorer’s Club. She 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. She uses multiple strategies to advance science-based conservation initiatives across disciplines. She has led and participated in over 50 marine research expeditions, including regions of Australia, Africa, Brazil, China, Nova Scotia, Belize, the Caribbean, and the eastern coast of the United States. Her research has been broadcast by the BBC, National Public Radio, the National Geographic Society, Discovery Channel Shark Week, and CBC National Radio Canada.