Edith Widder

Edith Widder is a biologist and deep-sea explorer who combines expertise in oceanographic research and technological innovation with commitment to reversing the worldwide trend of marine ecosystem degradation. Edith Widder received a B.A. (1973) from Tufts University and an M.A. (1977) and Ph.D. (1982) from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She was a senior scientist and director of the Bioluminescence Department at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution in Ft. Pierce, Florida (1989-2005), prior to co-founding and directing the Ocean Research and Conservation Association, also in Ft. Pierce. She has held adjunct appointments at Johns Hopkins University, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Institute of Technology, and Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Scientists.