Cassandra Brooks

Cassandra Brooks is an Assistant Professor in Environmental Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder, affiliated with the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR). She specializes in Antarctic marine conservation, environmental policy, and science communication. Her research focuses on Antarctic ecosystems, marine protected areas (MPAs), and climate change impacts on Southern Ocean species like albatrosses and Antarctic toothfish.

Education:

• PhD, Environment and Resources, Stanford University (2017)
• Graduate Certificate, Science Communication, UC Santa Cruz (2009)
• M.S., Marine Science, Moss Landing Marine Labs (2008)
• B.S., Biology, Bates College (2001)

Research Interests:

Her work integrates natural and social sciences to address marine conservation challenges. Key areas include Antarctic polynyas, Ross Sea MPA monitoring, climate resilience of fisheries, and policy frameworks for high seas governance. She collaborates on global initiatives like CCAMLR and SCAR, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches.

Awards & Recognition:

• Switzer Fellowship (2015)
• Ronne Award (2022)
• Explorer's Club 50 (2022)
• Early Career Award (2021)
• Excellence in Service & Leadership (2023)

Teaching & Mentorship:

She advises a diverse lab group focusing on Antarctic ecology and policy. Notable projects include otolith analysis of toothfish life history and modeling krill dynamics. She emphasizes science communication, publishing widely in Science, Nature, and media outlets like National Geographic. Her lab’s work is funded by NASA, NSF, and Pew Charitable Trusts.

Policy Engagement:

Brooks participates in CCAMLR negotiations and SCAR delegations, advocating for science-driven policy. She co-leads Arctic Rivers and Coral Reefs on the High Seas Coalition projects, bridging Indigenous knowledge with Western science for climate-resilient solutions.