Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza, Ph.D.
Marine Biologist / Shark Scientist / Ocean Conservation Leader
CEO & Chief Scientist, Ocean First Institute
Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza is a globally recognized marine biologist, shark scientist, explorer, and ocean conservation leader whose work bridges cutting-edge research, global expeditions, and large-scale public engagement.
As CEO and Chief Scientist of Ocean First Institute, she leads international initiatives advancing marine research, conservation, and science education through scientific expeditions, applied research, strategic partnerships, and public engagement.
Her work has taken her to more than 40 research expeditions across the globe, including the Galápagos, South Africa, Belize, and the eastern United States, while continuing to develop new international conservation initiatives and partnerships. Her research focuses on shark biology, behavior, sensory systems, and conservation strategies that support ocean ecosystem resilience.
Mikki is also an internationally recognized science communicator, featured by major media outlets including BBC, National Geographic, NPR, and Discovery Channel’s Shark Week. Her TEDx talk challenges long-standing misconceptions about sharks and highlights the role of knowledge in transforming fear into stewardship. Her work uses sharks as a gateway species to communicate broader themes of ocean health, biodiversity, and humanity’s relationship with the sea.
Current Roles
- CEO & Chief Scientist — Ocean First Institute (Founded 2014)
- Adjunct Assistant Professor — University of Colorado Boulder
Research & Expertise
- Shark biology and behavior
- Movement ecology
- Sensory systems (vision and electroreception)
- Marine conservation
- Shark population baseline development
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) biodiversity monitoring
- Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS)
- Marine conservation technology and monitoring
- Illegal fishing detection and ocean surveillance partnerships
- Ecosystem restoration
- Expedition-based field research
Leadership & Recognition
- President / Immediate Past President — American Elasmobranch Society
- Fellow — The Explorers Club
- Inductee — Women Divers Hall of Fame (2024)
Global Expeditions
Led and participated in 40+ global research and conservation expeditions, including:
- Galápagos Islands
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Belize
- Nova Scotia
- Hong Kong
- Amazon Basin (Manaus)
Current Global Initiatives
- Development of a community-led shark conservation and ocean stewardship initiative in Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
- Expansion of non-invasive shark research programs using eDNA and BRUVS technologies
- Integration of traditional ecological knowledge with modern marine science approaches
- Development of partnerships supporting marine protection and illegal fishing detection
Media & Public Engagement
Internationally recognized science communicator featured across major global media platforms.
Selected Media Features:
- BBC
- National Geographic
- Discovery Channel (Shark Week)
- NPR
- CBC
Featured Talk
TEDx — What You Don’t Know About Sharks
Impact
- Reached 1.5 million+ people through education and outreach
- $4 million+ mobilized for ocean conservation
- Programs delivered across 46 U.S. states and 35 countries
- Built a global network of university, nonprofit, government, and agency partners
- Integrated scientific research, conservation, and public engagement across global initiatives
Speaking & Collaboration
Available for Collaboration & Engagement:
- Keynote speaking
- Scientific collaboration
- Media interviews
- Educational programming
Contact
Email: mikki@oceanfirstinstitute.org
Phone: 303-956-7885
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikkikobza