JD Whitman is an installation artist, educator, and ocean advocate conducting research in the United States and the EU. She received an MFA in Photography, an MFA in Sculpture with honors, and an MA in Studio Arts from the University of Iowa (2015-2019); a Post-Baccalaureate in Fine Art from the Burren College of Art/University of Galway(2014); and a BA from the University of Chicago with honors (2013). Currently, JD is a 2nd year PhD candidate at the Burren College of Art/University of Galway and is working as an External Expert in SciArt for the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. Rooted in policy-driven marine science and ocean conservation, JD’s research practice aims to creatively illuminate anthropogenic threats to the ocean, potential solutions, and action steps for individuals and communities. Through transdisciplinary research, she investigates how art, scientific inquiry, technology, and public engagement can be combined to circumvent negative ecological emotions in environmental education, facilitate effective science communication, drive community-centric action, and influence policy.