Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza is passionate about unlocking the mysteries of the ocean. A marine biologist, explorer, and conservation leader, she is dedicated to advancing shark research and ocean education worldwide. As CEO and Chief Scientist of Ocean First Institute, a non-profit organization devoted to marine research, conservation, and education, she has helped reach overhalf a million people through nationally acclaimed conservation initiatives and innovative educational programs.

Through research, advocacy, and education, Dr. McComb-Kobza works to protect our planet’s most vital ecosystems for future generations. Her scientific focus centers on the biology, behavior, abundance, and movement of sharks, employing emerging technologies to better understand and conserve these keystone species. She has led or participated in more than 40 undersea expeditions across the globe—from Darwin to Cape Town, Manaus to Hong Kong, and along the Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia to Belize.

Her research has been featured by BBC, National Geographic, Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, NPR, and CBC National Radio Canada. In 2025, she delivered a TEDxBoulder talk titled “Fear to Fascination: The Truth About Sharks,” exploring how overcoming fear can lead to connection, curiosity, and conservation.

Dr. McComb-Kobza serves on the faculty of the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, is the immediate past President of the American Elasmobranch Society, a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame, and a National Fellow of The Explorers Club.

She holds a Ph.D. in Integrative Biology from Florida Atlantic University and is the author of numerous scientific publications. Mikki lives in Colorado with her husband, wildlife biologist Mac Kobza, their son Nick, and their Labrador retriever, Cooper.