Board of Directors

Executive Director: Dr. Brian Plankis
Brian holds a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston, where he teaches instructional technology, environmental education, and science methods courses. Brian was the original founder of Project DIBS and one of the founding members of the Reef Stewardship Foundation. His research interests include integrating emerging technology into science education, climate literacy, ocean literacy, and environmental literacy research, sustainability initiatives, and online community development.

Science Director: Eric Borneman
Eric Borneman is completing his PhD at the University of Houston. His work includes sexual coral reproduction, service on the scientific advisory board of Project SECORE, and whose primary work involves coral disease and pest-related mortality research in wild and captive corals, especially the white syndromes of corals. He is also involved in coral trade sustainability issues, genetic banking of coral species, and in coral restoration work.

Education Director: Trent Apple
Trent holds an MS in Marine Science from Texas A&M University. He has a background in teaching, field and laboratory research, and has been involved in zoos and aquariums, as well as non-profit organizations. Over the years, Trent has worked with marine invertebrates, fishes, and mammals, and has been engaged in ecosystem approaches to habitat restoration and conservation. He is currently helping guide our educational program focus, as well as our grant and collaboration efforts.

Research Director: Open Opportunity
Please contact us for details about the opportunity to serve as research director.