Jess is a marine social scientist who is interested in the management and governance of oceans and marine resources, especially in promoting and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in coastal communities. She has a keen interest in ocean literacy and furthering understanding about marine ecosystems.
Qualified as marine mammal observer, Jess has a deep-seated passion for marine wildlife and has worked with industry and research partners in documenting and reporting the abundance of cetaceans in Ireland and the Azores. Her sense of curiosity and her enthusiasm for marine science enabled her to travel the world conducting research in Portugal, the United States, Norway, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, and Scotland. These experiences have moulded her approach to delivering practicable and innovative solutions to complex issues through design thinking and using creative processes in the development and communication of the findings.
Jess has managed the EU Interreg-funded project ProtoAtlantic collaborating with industry partners, academia, and policymakers on developing Blue Economy strategies; and the EU Interreg-funded project COAST focusing on future challenges and development in coastal areas. She is a PhD Scholar at University College Cork.
