Erin Spencer

I am a marine ecologist and science writer who is passionate about sharing inspiring stories of marine conservation. As a National Geographic Explorer, I’ve traveled from Florida to Fiji to learn how communities can work together to protect our ocean’s fisheries.

I completed my PhD at Florida International University in Miami where I studied the movement and behavior of great hammerhead sharks. Other recent work has focused on sustainable fisheries management, including the rate of seafood mislabeling of red snapper and how states can better engage recreational fishers in fisheries management. I currently work on deep coral restoration in the Gulf.

I am passionate about using writing to bring stories of ocean conservation to people all over the world. As a former senior writer for Ocean Conservancy, I’ve written over 120 blog posts and dozens of wildlife fact sheets aimed at educating people about weird and wild ocean animals. My photographs and videos of marine invasive species have been featured by a number of organizations, including NBC, the New York Times, National Geographic, PBS, and CBS Sunday Morning.

Lastly, I love outreach and public speaking, and have given dozens of talks through National Geographic, the World Bank, the State Department, the Tulsa Aquarium, and TEDx. I’ve also done extensive outreach to schools through Skype a Scientist, Rosie Riveters, Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants, and National Geographic Education, with an emphasis on encouraging young women in STEM fields. Please get in touch to chat about speaking opportunities.

I am an alumna of the College of William and Mary and the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill.