The European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet) is a network of European organisations working together to observe the oceans, to make the collected marine data freely available and interoperable, to create seamless data layers across sea-basins and to distribute the data and data products through the Internet. The primary aim of EMODnet is to unlock existing but fragmented and hidden marine data and make them accessible for a wide range of users including private bodies, public authorities and researchers.
Originally from Colorado, USA, Kara obtained a BSc in 2021 with a double major in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Environmental Sciences. Having the Rocky Mountains as her backyard while growing up, she developed a deep passion for environmentalism. Although, it was a professor who inspired her commitment to marine conservation.
In 2023, Kara graduated with an MSc from the International Master of Marine Biological Resources (IMBRSea) program, specializing in Marine Ecology and Coastal Ecosystems. This program, based at Ghent University in Belgium, took her to four other European universities in the Basque Country, France, Sweden, and Portugal. She graduated after presenting her dissertation characterizing Portuguese seahorse populations to increase knowledge of two data-deficient species. This experience highlighted to her the importance of FAIR data and the necessity of interdisciplinary scientific communication to manage conservation efforts properly.
As a Junior Science Support Officer, Kara provides support to the EMODnet Secretariat. For this role she leverages her scientific background and knowledge of ocean literacy and FAIR data principles to support EMODnet communications, partnerships including EMODnet Associated Partners, EMODnet for Business and wider stakeholder dialogues, EMODnet events e.g., Open Sea Lab 4.0 and Open Conference 2025, and the EMODnet Steering Committee.