The Biotelemetry and Behavioral Ecology Lab is dedicated to increasing diversity within the scientific community, as a diverse team produces stronger research. We are dedicated to an inclusive laboratory environment where all feel welcome and supported and strive actively to create a culture of belonging for students.

Marine animals do not perceive international boundaries, and neither should our research. Our research team collaborates with diverse scientists from around the world in order to tackle complex problems related to how the movement and behavior of marine animals places them at risk from human activities and alterations to their ecosystems.  Learn more about some of our partners by visiting our research associates and collaborators page under the “people” tab.

Our lab is highly integrated with California Ocean Alliance. The mission of the California Ocean Alliance is to conduct world-class marine research which leads directly to sound policy decisions that safeguard the oceans and allow marine mammals to thrive into the next century. COA scientists are directly integrated with those we strive to affect, including students, community leaders, educators, and decision makers. Our lab participates in COA’s various education programs. These programs reach a number of ages through a variety of experiences including:

1. The Marine Mammal Scientist in Training program is an intensive and highly engaging one-week, hands-on course offered throughout the summer to high school students here in Monterey Bay.
2. The Marine Mammal Naturalist course is a program for all ages that introduces people to the wonders of California’s unique ecology.
3. The Marine Mammal Online Experience, a unique and engaging one-week online educational course designed to provide each student of all ages the opportunity to work directly with world experts in marine mammal science and conservation.
4. We host Blundy Family Marine Fellows, this paid fellowship was created to increase diversity in marine science, it is a highly competitive academic opportunity that pairs recent college graduates with researchers and educational experts.
5. We also host COA’s Advanced Scientist Training Scholars, this is a paid internship program for undergraduates who are exemplary in research and are looking to advance their skillset before pursuing graduate school or a career in marine science.

To learn more about the California Ocean Alliance and the programs they have to offer, click the logo to the right.

Additionally, we strive to connect with students from around the United States and the world and share our research with as broad of an audience as possible. This includes developing curriculum, Q&A sessions, and online learning sessions from remote locations including the Antarctic.