About Me
Hello! I’m Sarah, a marine biologist bringing science to bear for advocacy and communication. As a science generalist, my experience includes data and policy analysis, field and desk research, writing and speaking, and project management. I’m based these days in Southern California and I thrive in international and interdisciplinary settings.
How do we keep whales out of fishing nets? Speaking at TEDx Laguna Beach, Sarah Bedolfe untangles how science and technology revolutionized swordfish fishing – and how those lessons can protect endangered species and secure sustainable fisheries livelihoods around the world.
Experience
My lifelong love of the ocean was sparked by a childhood spent swimming at the beach in Southern California and volunteering at the local Ocean Institute.
After studying Biology at Swarthmore College I served as Coordinator of Marine Research for MacGillivray Freeman Films. Working closely with the production and communication teams, I helped develop the award-winning One World One Ocean Campaign and IMAX documentary films such as Journey to the South Pacific.
I went on to graduate from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands with a Master of Science in Marine Biology, cum laude. After completing the Research track, I enrolled in the Science, Business and Policy program to learn how to convert science expertise to real-world impact. My studies included internships with conservation organizations, such as Good Fish Foundation, where I advised on how to facilitate a responsible fishery for invasive crayfish. I also laid the groundwork for a new conservation NGO Freshwater Life (which is now established!) by crafting a strategic plan and forging relationships with experts and potential collaborators in six countries. As a member of the Masters Honours College, I also participated in leadership seminars and helped The Black Fish launch their Citizen Inspector Network, which mobilized volunteers to monitor fishing activity.
In February 2017, I was thrilled to join the inspiring team at Oceana as Global Fellow. Today, I serve there as a Marine Scientist providing strategic research, analysis and writing, particularly on the topics of habitat protection, ecology, and biodiversity.
For more information, please visit my LinkedIn page or contact me.
Instagram
@sarahbedolfe
