Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza is a leading marine biologist, explorer, and ocean advocate recognized globally for her work in shark conservation and science education. She is the CEO and Chief Scientist of Ocean First Institute, a nonprofit organization advancing marine research, education, and conservation. Under her leadership, the Institute has reached over half a million people across 46 U.S. states and 35 countries through award-winning conservation programs and transformative educational outreach.

With over two decades of experience, Dr. McComb-Kobza's research explores the biology, behavior, and movement of sharks using innovative technologies such as satellite tracking, environmental DNA (eDNA), and remote camera systems. She directs shark research from Ocean First Institute’s field lab in the Florida Keys, where her team studies local shark populations and trains the next generation of marine scientists. She has led or participated in more than 40 scientific expeditions around the world, from the Amazon River Basin to the South African coast, and from the coral reefs of Belize to the icy waters off Nova Scotia.

Her work has been featured by National Geographic, the BBC, Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, NPR, and CBC National Radio Canada. She is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, past President of the American Elasmobranch Society, a National Fellow of The Explorers Club, and a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame.

Dr. McComb-Kobza earned her Ph.D. in Integrative Biology from Florida Atlantic University and is the author of numerous scientific publications. She is passionate about inspiring ocean stewardship through science, education, and storytelling.