Nicole Morris is an elasmobranch biologist and science communicator based in San Diego, CA. Growing up in the most biodiverse county in the United States, it's only natural that Nicole's academic journey began with a fascination with her local wildlife, particularly sharks and rays. Her research interests encompass a broad spectrum, including shark and ray biology, stress physiology, kinematics, and social behaviors.  Additionally, she harbors a deep-seated love for the ecology of her home of Southern California and is committed to developing efforts that get local communities involved in conservation.

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She was accepted into the Advanced Inquiry Program and Miami University in 2021, and will graduate with her MA in biology December 2024. In her program, she received hands-on education and training in field research, effective community conservation strategies, and many other valuable skills in addition to her biological studies.

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In 2023, she was honored to be accepted onto the Field School's Shark Research Skills course, where she honed her practical skills in marine field research. In 2022, Nicole's unique journey as a queer woman in marine biology was showcased in an award-winning documentary called Diving for Rays on WaterBear Network. Through her candid retelling of her story, Nicole not only sheds light on her personal experiences but also serves as an inspiration to individuals from diverse backgrounds aspiring to pursue careers in science. Collaborating with organizations such as Jackson Wild, The National Marine Mammal Foundation, California Fish and Wildlife, Outdoor Outreach, and more, she aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and community engagement as well as foster a deeper connection between communities and the ocean, ensuring that conservation efforts are inclusive and accessible to all.

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