February 26, 2024
Dr. Tessa Hempson is a conservation biologist with a curiosity about the natural world that began growing up in the African savannas but quickly led her to the ocean. In her role as Chief Scientist for Mission Blue, Tessa is working to integrate a science-based approach to catalyze the organization’s extensive network and realize Dr. Sylvia Earle’s vision for ocean protection. Tessa has over 20 years of experience in marine conservation and is passionate about working with people to develop conservation solutions that are founded
on strong collaborative relationships, well-targeted research, effective communication and storytelling, and underwritten by empowered local custodianship of our marine environment.
Tessa holds a BSc. Hons, and an MSc. in Conservation Biology from the University of Cape Town, and a PhD in coral reef ecology from James Cook University in Australia, where she remains an adjunct researcher. She led the establishment of the Oceans Without Borders Programme with &Beyond and Africa Foundation over 6 years in East Africa and is a member of the Monaco Explorations Scientific Advisory Committee, an Explorers Club Fellow, and has worked as a researcher in a number of remote locations around the world.