I am an early career marine ecologist studying environmental resource management at the intersection of science and policy in the Antarctic – and seeking funded PhD or career opportunities. I am the co-founder of International Penguin Early Career Scientists (http://ipecs.org) and the southwest representative for the U.S. Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (http://usapecs.wix.com/usapecs). Named a “Future Professor Penguin,” I am also passionate about science communication and excited for the chance to curate Biotweeps.
My interdisciplinary research in ecosystem-based management looks at behavioral or life history changes of seabirds (like penguins) and marine mammals (like seals) across time and space, paying attention to how they respond to variations within their dynamic ocean environment (e.g. shifting oceanographic conditions, increased competition from fisheries, impacts from an oil spill). I then analyze these findings to evaluate how well conservation policies are working or if best-available science suggests we need to negotiate new treaties.
I completed my Master’s in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (’14) at UCSD’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography (USA) in collaboration with a NOAA researcher on dolphin mating systems. Prior to that, I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Field Ecology & Conservation Biology from The Evergreen State College (USA). I am currently employed as a Marine Mammal Observer at a US Naval Base. Additionally, I am passionate about political ecology, ethics in research, and applied animal welfare.
I am based out of San Diego, CA, USA, where I live in a RV with my rescue dog. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions or opportunities! You can e-mail me at alex@ipecs.org, follow me on Twitter (@AntarcticWaters), or learn more about me at my webpage: http://ipecs.org/alex-thornton.html.
Biotweeps 