Grace is a molecular ecologist who uses genetic tools to illustrate changes in ecosystem health and biodiversity from natural and manmade causes. Her past work spans coral reef restoration, climate resilience research, and the genetic management of endangered species, with a focus on translating molecular approaches into practical tools for marine resource management.

Grace has a BS in Geology from Haverford College and a PhD in Microbiology from Oregon State University. She previously led coral health research and community-driven reef restoration in Hawaiʻi and the Florida Keys, integrating water quality data, microbiome research, and field implementation methods to improve reef resilience in a warming ocean. The complex land-sea connectivity in Hawaiʻi expanded Grace’s interests beyond corals to the broader processes that shape island ecosystems. As the coordinator for IslandScope, she works with island communities to build eDNA monitoring programs that track ecological change and support local restoration goals. Grace lives in Kona, Hawaiʻi, where she enjoys scuba diving, hiking, and contributing to the local performing arts scene.