Experts

Dr. Peter Kareiva joined the Aquarium of Pacific in August 2020. He holds a B.A. in zoology, M.S. in environmental biology, and Ph.D. in ecology and evolutionary biology. He is committed to science that engages the public and believes that connecting to nature is the one thing that can overcome the deep political and social divides that plague the nation today.

Jennie Dean is serving as the Aquarium’s inaugural vice president of education and conservation. In this role she will amplify and enhance the Aquarium’s work in species conservation and learning for all audiences.

Emily Yam’s key areas of expertise include climate resilience, oceanography, marine science, and data-driven interpretation.

James Stewart is the Aquarium’s resident whale expert.

Dr. Lance Adams’ areas of expertise include veterinary care in the zoo and aquarium industry and rehabilitation of various animals, including rescued endangered sea turtles.

Marilyn Padilla regularly serves as a spokesperson on Aquarium programs and animals for Spanish-language media outlets, including on international, national, and local programs.

Rachel Munson is the aquarist in charge of Shark Lagoon at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Rob Mortensen’s areas of expertise include marine biology, ocean conservation, horticulture, penguins, sea otters, seals, sea lions, Southern California terrestrial reptiles and birds, and the critically endangered Guam Kingfisher.

Cassandra Davis is the manager of volunteer programs at the Aquarium of the Pacific. She works directly with volunteers, scientists, and communities to connect them with ocean science.

Nate Jaros is the Aquarium’s curator of fishes and invertebrates and leads a team of aquarists who care for all of the fish and invertebrate animals at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Staci Wong is the interpretation manager at the Aquarium of the Pacific. She manages guest experiences at the Aquarium that are facilitated by the education department, including volunteers.

Erin McCombs is an education supervisor at the Aquarium with expertise in shark and ray biology and conservation.