Michael, born just outside of Philadelphia, developed a deep passion for marine life and conservation at an early age. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he conducted research on the evolution of bioluminescence in marine organisms. He later completed a master’s degree at Villanova University studying octocoral thermotolerance. When he’s not immersed in marine ecosystems, he’s cheering on his favorite Philadelphia sports teams.
Faculty Advisor:Dr. Dustin Kemp