Author: David Shiffman

“Why Sustainable Seafood Matters” is now available for preorder! Here’s what it’s about, and why I decided to write it.

Posted on By David Shiffman No Comments on “Why Sustainable Seafood Matters” is now available for preorder! Here’s what it’s about, and why I decided to write it.
Conservation, Education, Featured

I am thrilled to announce that “Why Sustainable Seafood Matters,” my second book, is now available for preorder through my publisher Johns Hopkins University Press! Use code HWSSM for 30% off your preorder! Preorders are important because they help signal to booksellers how much interest there is in a book, so please consider ordering a … Read More ““Why Sustainable Seafood Matters” is now available for preorder! Here’s what it’s about, and why I decided to write it.” »

I just told 850 shark scientists a hard truth: We’re not communicating shark conservation correctly.

Posted on By David Shiffman No Comments on I just told 850 shark scientists a hard truth: We’re not communicating shark conservation correctly.
Conservation, Education, Policy, Science

At the 2026 Sharks International conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka, I was invited to present my research on the causes and consequences of public misunderstanding of shark conservation issues. The meeting brought together more than 850 shark scientists and conservation professionals from 84 countries, a new record for the conference. Here’s what I told them. … Read More “I just told 850 shark scientists a hard truth: We’re not communicating shark conservation correctly.” »

Here’s how to join my IMCC8 symposium, “Ocean Science Communication: What’s New and What’s Next?”

Posted on By David Shiffman
Conservation, Education, Featured

I am pleased to announce that I’ll be leading a symposium at the upcoming 8th International Marine Conservation Congress in Scotland! We’ll be discussing new developments and emerging trends in the field of ocean science and conservation communication, and will produce a multi-coauthor peer reviewed scientific journal manuscript. Here’s how to sign up to present. … Read More “Here’s how to join my IMCC8 symposium, “Ocean Science Communication: What’s New and What’s Next?”” »

Fun facts and FAQs about Megalodon, Maryland’s new (and definitely extinct) official state shark

Posted on By David Shiffman
Education, Science

This week, Maryland became the first U.S. State to have an official state shark! Otodus megalodon was a really cool shark that is rightfully beloved by many, and Maryland’s Calvert Cliffs are a major source of Megalodon fossils of this awesome animal (which is definitely and unequivocally super-duper extinct). I wanted to join in the … Read More “Fun facts and FAQs about Megalodon, Maryland’s new (and definitely extinct) official state shark” »

Reflections on science and my role in it, ten years since my Ph.D. defense

Posted on By David Shiffman 2 Comments on Reflections on science and my role in it, ten years since my Ph.D. defense
Uncategorized

I defended my Ph.D. on April 1, 2016. Ten years later, I’m not where I thought I’d be, but I couldn’t be happier with how things turned out. My original goals If you had asked me on April 1, 2016 what career path I had planned after I finished graduate school, my answer would have … Read More “Reflections on science and my role in it, ten years since my Ph.D. defense” »

Here are some ocean conservation technologies that I’m excited about

Posted on By David Shiffman
Conservation, Featured

“Is there any technology the left is excited about?” This question was asked on social media this week by a supporter of AI who was frustrated by criticisms of that technology. It’s led to some interesting discussions on Bluesky, and I wanted to answer it from my perspective as an ocean conservation scientist and policy … Read More “Here are some ocean conservation technologies that I’m excited about” »

I’m getting married! Want to honor us? Here are some great charities you can donate to.

Posted on By David Shiffman
Conservation, Education

Some, as they say, personal news: I’m getting married! I’d love to use this happy occassion to spread good news around. To that end, if you’re so inclined to make a donation “in honor of David and Eileen getting married,” here is a list of some great charities I love, and some instructions on how … Read More “I’m getting married! Want to honor us? Here are some great charities you can donate to.” »

Here’s how to help identify Important Shark and Ray Areas in North America!

Posted on By David Shiffman
Conservation, Science

The Important Shark and Ray Areas project is coming to North America! Colleagues, if you think your data suggests that you’ve identified an Important Shark and Ray Area in your study site, here’s how to submit your data and participate. So what exactly is an Important Shark and Ray Area? In short, an Important Shark … Read More “Here’s how to help identify Important Shark and Ray Areas in North America!” »

2025: My year in writing, public speaking, and media interviews

Posted on By David Shiffman
Uncategorized

2025 was a great year for my public outreach! Among other things, I was selected as a Sigma Xi distinguished lecturer (starting in 2026,) won the American Fisheries Society’s Excellence in Public Outreach Award, and was honored as one of the people most shaping policy in Washington, DC by Washingtonian Magazine. Here are some of … Read More “2025: My year in writing, public speaking, and media interviews” »