Shark Biologist to Give Address at Annual Coastal Science Symposium

The Coastal Science Symposium 2019 will once again bring awareness about one of Georgia’s most valued treasures—its beautiful coastal area. The annual symposium hosted by the College of Coastal Georgia will be held Friday, November 15, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Campus Center. Students, faculty, scientists, natural resource managers, and community members will gather together to explore coastal and marine science research and their applications to society.

This year’s keynote speaker is renowned shark biologist Dr. Toby Daly-Engel from the Florida Institute of Technology. Daly-Engel’s Shark Conservation lab at Florida Tech studies the molecular ecology and evolution of sharks and other migratory marine animals in order to better conserve and protect ecosystem health. At the symposium, Daly-Engel will talk about what cutting-edge research can tell us about shark behavior, how shark scientists are working to protect these animals, and the myths and realities of shark attacks. Daly-Engel has authored dozens of research articles, and her work has been covered by popular documentary series, including the Discovery Channel’s Shark Week.

Dr. Holly Nance, assistant professor of biology at the College, met Daly-Engel in graduate school. They were working on the same species of shark for their doctorate research. Nance said they both needed to develop genetic markers for their research and collaborated together on that process.

“She has since continued her work on shark biology and genetics, and I hope people will gain a greater appreciation for sharks in our own estuaries after hearing her speak,” Nance said. “I also hope they learn how molecular techniques and genetic data can be applied to conservation issues.”

Following the address, there will be a poster showcase for students to present their research and service-learning projects covering topics in coastal ecology, conservation biology, and environmental science. Community partners will be there as well with educational exhibits and opportunities for local community members to get involved in citizen science and coastal conservation efforts.

Coastal Science Symposium 2019 is free and open to the public. The community partner exhibits will begin at 9 a.m. in the Campus Center lobby. The address will be given in the Stembler Theatre from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., and the poster presentations will be held in the Campus Center lobby from approximately 11 a.m. to noon. Visitors can park next to the Campus Center on College Drive through the College’s main entrance on Altama Avenue across from Brunswick High School. For more information, visit www.ccga.edu/coastal science.

Who: College of Coastal Georgia

What: Coastal Science Symposium 2019

When: Friday, November 15 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Campus Center

College of Coastal Georgia

Brunswick, Ga. 31520