Dr. Karlisa Callwood

Karlisa’s dissertation research focused on interdisciplinary approaches to evaluating fisheries management.  Her dissertation examined the natural and anthropogenic factors that influence the Bahamian Spiny Lobster fishery, including the role of condos as a collection method, the dispersal and connectivity of spiny lobster larvae throughout the Caribbean, the bioeconomic impacts on the fishery, and the perceptions of all the stakeholders involved.  This study allowed for an assessment of how ecological, social, and economic elements interact to create and define the fishery, including the implications of this convergence on overall management.  Karlisa’s current research is focused on the socio-economic dynamics and fisher perceptions of an emerging parrotfish fishery in The Bahamas.

In addition to fisheries research, Karlisa has over a decade of experience developing and managing science education programming. She has created and overseen the implementation of a variety of science programs (including camps, outreach activities, field trips, college-bound training, field studies, science demos and theater, homeschool, citizen science research projects, curriculum development, and professional development) at organizations like the Miami Science Museum, the Deering Estate at Cutler, Breakthrough Miami, the Miami Science Barge, and the Port Townsend Marine Science Center.  Her experience includes the management of several programs focused specifically on engaging students from underrepresented and underserved communities in Miami. She has also worked as part of the team responsible for the planning and development of exhibits and related programs for the Living Core aquarium within the newly constructed Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, with a focus on creating engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.  She currently serves as the Director of Informal Science and Engagement at the Pacific Science Center.  Her interests include establishing practices to enhance science education, while providing access to all, and to discovering interesting strategies to better bridge the gaps that exist between scientists, policymakers, and the public through informal science learning and interdisciplinary approaches.    

A native of the USVI, Karlisa graduated from the University of Miami with a B.S. in Marine Science and Biology, an M.S. in Marine Affairs and Policy, and a Ph.D. in Ecosystem Science and Policy, with a focus on interdisciplinary studies of fisheries management, conservation and sustainability. She is now the director of Informal Education and Engagement at Pacific Science Center.  

Contact Karlisa at: kcallwood@rsmas.miami.edu

Find her CV here.