Erin Hurley
Lead Intern
Erin grew up on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, where summers consisted of more time spent in water than on land. Her fascination with aquatic environments grew as she dipped her toes in the vast world under the ocean’s surface through snorkeling and diving. She graduated from St. Thomas University in New Brunswick, Canada, with a Bachelor’s degree in Environment & Society and Journalism.
When working on an organic produce farm in Oahu, Hawaii, she was able to snorkel with a pod of spinner dolphins off a nearby beach, and observe various other vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants of the ocean. These were some of the encounters which really cemented her desire to pursue marine conservation work. She is very excited to be a part of the awesome team at Bimini Shark Lab and to continue learning about the intricate marine ecosystems she has been amazed by since childhood!
Ethan Prawdzik
Lead Intern
Ethan grew up on the Prairies of Western Canada where he spent most of his time exploring the natural world in the Rocky Mountains or on the Prairies. On a whim he decided to pursue a BSc in Marine Biology at the University of Victoria. Here he developed his passion for marine science and the critters that call the sea their home. During his BSc he completed numerous field courses that lead him towards a career in biological field work. After graduating in June 2024 he began pursuing a career as an aquatic biologist. Although he has enjoyed his time working in this field, Ethan knows it is not his passion, so he is very stoked to be coming to the Shark Lab. He is excited to work in the marine environment again, connect with other passionate individuals and learn as much as he can.
Emma Estrada
Intern
Emma grew up surrounded by the pacific ocean in Kailua-Kona, HawaiÊ»i, where spending time in and around the water fostered an early appreciation for marine life. Raised in a community that depends on the ocean, she developed a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. She volunteered with the NOAA’s turtle research program, as well as spent time in Savusavu, Fiji, volunteering with the Coral Watch program. Alongside pursuing a degree in Environmental Science at Gonzaga University, Emma has also worked with Big Island Divers, further strengthening her experience in the marine environment while sharing her enthusiasm for the ocean with others. Emma is particularly interested in marine ecology, conservation, and the role that scientific research plays in protecting vulnerable species and habitats. She is excited to join the Shark Lab team, where she looks forward to learning from the passionate community of scientists and interns. Emma hopes this experience will help prepare her for a future career dedicated to marine science, conservation, and the protection of our oceans.
Daniella Rouget
Intern
Daniella grew up in Cornwall, UK, where living by the coast fostered a lifelong appreciation for the marine environment. Her fascination with marine life led her to pursue a degree in Marine Biology at Swansea University, where she developed a particular interest in sharks and other elasmobranchs. She is especially passionate about their ecology, conservation, and improving public perceptions of these often misunderstood animals. Alongside her studies, Daniella gained international conservation experience through volunteer projects in Indonesia and Malaysia, participating in coral and mangrove restoration initiatives and teaching marine biology to local children. As a recipient of the Doc Gruber Memorial Scholarship, Daniella is excited to join the Shark Lab, expand her knowledge of all things ocean, develop practical field skills, and contribute to outreach initiatives while working towards a career in elasmobranch research and conservation.