Junior SeaKeepers 2025-26 Webinar 7: Endangered Species Conservation Science with Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza

On February 24th, 2026, The International SeaKeepers Society hosted its seventh webinar experience of the 2025-26 Junior SeaKeepers cohort. For this webinar we are immensely grateful to be joined by Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza, shark biologist and executive director of Ocean First Institute. Dr. McComb-Kobza research focuses on the behavior, biology, abundance, and movement of sharks using non-invasive methods such as eDNA and baited underwater remote vessels (BRUVs). Her fascination with sharks began with the movie JAWS when she was a child, overcoming her fears by delving into literature and research of these beautiful predators. Our students were fascinated debunking all the common misconceptions and diving into new research technology.

By attending webinars led by partner research scientists, our Junior SeaKeepers have the opportunity to learn first-hand about the diversity of work that exists in the marine conservation realm. Additionally, students get direct access to accomplished professionals and can see the advancements in the field that are the result of research happening every day all over the world. Through speaking with Dr. McComb-Kobza about her research and personal history, we hope that our JSKs were able to collect some inspiration for both their research projects and their professional futures moving forward. We want to give a huge thank you to Dr. McComb-Kobza for taking the time to share her extensive research experience and passions with our JSKs.