Bri Gabel

Science Communicator | Marine Biologist > Energy Professional

Who am I? Since you asked…

As a biologist 24/7 and an energy professional 40 hours a week, my motivation to communicate science in any form remains unchanged. With over 10 years of experience across a broad range of scientific fields built on an artistic need to make things pretty, a constant has always been facilitating community engagement in data, no matter the topic.

My colleagues consider me a versatile and self-sufficient researcher, grant writer, graphic artist, and program evaluator, who still prepares biological specimens just because she likes it. I am known for my strong acumen, team leadership, and passion for diversifying decision-making by democratizing data. If I am not educating on energy, I am probably SCUBA diving.

Full CV
Areas of Expertise

Community Science & Engagement

For nearly a decade, I have aquacultured jellyfish for display and research with the help of the Jelly Team, a group of 7-10 dedicated community scientists trained and guided under my supervision. The Jelly Team has been so successful that in 2019, we were contacted by NOAA to work on a jellyfish ecology project utilizing aquacultured jellyfish produced by the team. The project was so successful that funding was renewed in 2020.

Graphic Design & Scientific Illustration

My background in biology and artistic skills produce scientifically accurate infographics as well as pleasing illustrations of local marine life. My work has been used on clothing as well as for capital campaign promotions. Samples of my work can be seen on my portfolio page.

Biological Collection Management
& Specimen Preparation

I am an expert skeleton preparator having worked on everything from gray whales to hummingbirds. Utilizing a combination of ligamentary articulation when possible and CT scans, I aim to create as accurate as possible displays of primarily marine mammals. Additionally, I am well-versed in the preparation and management of wet specimens, study skins, and other biological samples used in educational facilities.

SCUBA Diving
& Aquarium Design

Certified in 2007, I have over 350 dives in Puget Sound as well as 200 dives throughout the South Pacific including Hawaii and Saipan, CNMI. I am an AAUS diver through Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. I have collected animal specimens for both scientific use and aquarium display as well as conducted numerous reef and eelgrass surveys. Additionally, I have designed and fabricated large-scale aquariums for museums and community marine centers.

What’s New (ish)?

Everett Herald Interview

Recently, I was interviewed by the local news about the gray whale exhibit I am working on for Imagine Children’s Museum. You can read the full article here. It was wonderful being able to work with volunteers again and teaching them about whales and bones. This is going to be a great exhibit and I…
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I live and learn on Lingít Aaní, the traditional lands of the Tlingit people and the Sheetká Kwáan, the stewards of both the land and waters of Sitka since time immemorial, continue to thrive in this place, alive and strong. I am grateful to be part of this community and will work to honor the culture, tradition, and resilience of the Tlingit people. It always was and always will be Indigenous land; sovereignty was never ceded.
This land acknowledgment does not take the place of authentic relationships with Indigenous communities but is one of many steps to do so.