Sami’s journey with iCare Coral Restoration began as an internship during her final year of university, where she was studying marine biology. Initially drawn to the program by her love for the ocean and a desire to make a difference in coral conservation, Sami quickly realized that the hands-on experience she was gaining was far more impactful than she had imagined. She started by assisting with coral planting and monitoring, helping to rehabilitate damaged reefs. Her enthusiasm and dedication were immediately evident, as she immersed herself in the day-to-day operations and built strong connections with the team.

Over time, Sami’s role grew, and so did her passion for coral restoration. She took on more responsibility, learning about the scientific techniques behind coral growth and the broader impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. The internship not only provided her with invaluable technical skills but also deepened her understanding of the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. Working with local schools and eco-tourism companies, Sami saw how education and outreach were essential for long-term success in protecting coral reefs. This holistic approach to restoration made her realize that this was not just a job—it was a calling.

As Sami transitioned from intern to a full-time member of the iCare team, her career flourished. She was given the opportunity to lead new restoration projects and research initiatives, exploring innovative techniques like coral gardening and temperature-resistant coral breeding. The rewards of her work were evident in the vibrant reefs that were gradually being restored and the communities that were learning to protect their marine environments. The sense of accomplishment she felt each time a coral nursery thrived or a damaged reef began to recover was unmatched, reinforcing her commitment to the field.

Today, Sami’s career in coral restoration is not just about the technical aspects of rebuilding reefs; it’s about preserving ecosystems for future generations and fostering a global sense of environmental stewardship. She often reflects on how her internship at iCare sparked a passion that has shaped her life, offering both personal fulfillment and the knowledge that she is contributing to a healthier planet. The rewards of her work extend beyond the coral reefs—she’s making a tangible difference, inspiring others to take action for marine conservation.

Emily Becker is a Senior Biological Scientist at Keys Marine Lab in the Florida keys. She received her bachelor’s degree at the University of Rhode Island in Marine Biology. In 2013, she completed her master’s degree in Biology at the University of Rhode Island with a focus on the development and evolution of the lateral line system in fish. Following graduation, she became heavily involved in scientific and commercial-scale marine aquaculture.

Her experience includes managing a 125,000-gallon pelagic finfish RAS research facility, the culture, and production of marine finfish for stock enhancement purposes with South Carolina DNR, and managing a 18,000-gallon Zebrafish medical research facility at Duke University. Additionally, she has worked with sustainable kelp, algae, and sea urchin production in New England and constructed and advised startup aquaponics facilities along the Atlantic coast.

She is a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver with AAUS scientific diver training. Over the last 8 years, she has extensively traveled the Atlantic coast from Maine to the Florida Keys aboard her personal vessel.

Dr. Lewis is the Director of the Keys Marine Lab and has been lead Staff Scientist since 2008. She received her bachelor’s degree at Cornell University and master’s degree at the University of Buffalo, Graduate Program in Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior. Her master’s work focused on coral-algal symbiosis and she has extensive field experience in stony coral and soft coral reproduction and spawning.

Dr. Lewis completed her Ph.D. in the Biology Department at Florida International University, studying the effects of hyperthermal stress on coral symbiosis, bleaching, disease, and the microbiome in the federally–listed pillar coral, Dendrogyra cylindrus. This research was largely funded by a National Science Foundation Rapid Response Research grant with Dr. Mauricio Rodriguez-Lanetty. Information gained from her work with pillar coral since 2014 has prompted the establishment of ex situ genetic rescue nurseries for this critically threatened species, involving multiple federal, state, and local partners.

Dr. Lewis is the KML delegate to the Association of Marine Laboratories of the Caribbean (AMLC) and active on the communications committee. Additionally, she maintains active status as an American Academy of Underwater Science (AAUS) diver and is a NAUI Dive Master. Community involvement includes municipality representative to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council, South Florida Coral Disease Advisory Council participant, member of Leadership Monroe County Class XXVIII, councilwoman on the Layton City Council, and board member/treasurer/musician in the Keys Community Concert Band.

Dr. Kylie Smith is the Co-Founder of I.CARE, a reef restoration organization dedicated to involving the community in restoring the reefs of the Florida Keys. Dr. Smith has been studying the factors influencing coral transplant survival and reef fish behavior in the Florida Keys since 2012. Specifically, she studied the impacts of consecutive bleaching events, Hurricane Irma, and disease on coral transplants during her graduate work at Clemson University.

Since Co-Founding I.CARE in 2021, she has overseen projects in coral transplanting and monitoring, land-based coral husbandry, reef-sponge restoration, and education outreach. She has called the Florida Keys her permanent home since 2019 and enjoys being on the water every chance she gets!

Dr. Smith maintains partnerships with Mote Marine Lab, Keys Marine Lab, FWC, the Coral Restoration Foundation, Clemson University, Jacksonville University, Florida International University and other organizations to maximize the survival of both coral and herbivore transplants to restore ecological health to these reefs.

Dr. Steve Gittings is a renowned marine biologist with a career spanning several decades, specializing in marine conservation and restoration. He currently serves as the Chief Scientist for NOAA’s National Marine Sanctuary Program, where he oversees scientific research and the development of conservation strategies for the United States’ network of marine sanctuaries. His work has made significant contributions to protecting marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs, and developing innovative approaches to marine management. Dr. Gittings is also recognized for his expertise in marine policy, making him a valuable bridge between science and government efforts to safeguard ocean habitats.

Dr. Gittings has led numerous groundbreaking projects throughout his career, including the design of underwater tools for monitoring marine life, as well as initiatives aimed at reducing the impacts of human activities on marine environments. One of his notable achievements is the development of a lionfish trap, which is being tested and will hopefully play a critical role in controlling the population of this invasive species in the Atlantic and Caribbean waters. His hands-on approach, coupled with his passion for problem-solving, showcases his dedication to practical, science-driven solutions to the challenges facing marine ecosystems.

Given his extensive fieldwork experience and leadership in conservation initiatives, Dr. Gittings is an ideal Advisor for Marine Science Odyssey. His ability to translate complex scientific concepts into engaging, real-world applications makes him an inspiring figure for everyone interested in marine science. His passion for ocean conservation aligns perfectly with our mission to highlight individual efforts in the scientific community, and his work can provide both educational insights and actionable inspiration to audiences around the world.