Emily Hicks is a graduate student in the Marine Resource Management program at Oregon State University, where she is researching perceptions of the invasive Mud Blister Worm (Polydora spp.) in Pacific Northwest estuaries. Her work aims to better understand how this species impacts oyster growers, seafood professionals, and consumers. Emily earned her B.S. in Earth Sciences with a focus on Ocean Studies, also from Oregon State University. She lives in Veneta, Oregon, with her partner, daughter, and several beloved cats. Outside of her academic work, Emily enjoys bicycling, hiking, quilting, baking, and reading science fiction and fantasy novels.
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Professor Sam Chan is Oregon Sea Grant’s specialist in aquatic invasive species and watershed health. He leads applied research and public outreach to help Oregonians identify, manage, and prevent the spread of marine invasives. Sam has served on the Oregon Invasive Species Council and the Western Regional Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species. He also contributes expertise in water quality, oil spill response, and water sustainability. As part of the NSF’s Water Sustainability and Climate initiative, he leads stakeholder engagement efforts. His work focuses on improving public participation in science through research-based education on invasive species and water issues.