Keisha Bahr, Ph.D.

Dr. Keisha Bahr is an HRI Fellow and Assistant Professor of Marine Biology at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. She is a coral reef ecologist interested in understanding how corals and coral reefs react and adapt to environmental change. Her research seeks to reveal insights into ecosystem health and resilience while providing practical solutions to managers, policymakers, and communities. Over the past decade, she has collaborated with academic, government, non-governmental institutions, and local communities to develop the knowledge and tools to restore, preserve, and manage our coral reef ecosystems.

As an HRI Fellow, Dr. Bahr is working with Dr. Mark Besonen and HRI International Chairs for Cuba (Dr. Patricia González Díaz) and Mexico (Dr. Nuno Simões) to co-develop and support standardized monitoring methods for corals reefs throughout the Gulf of Mexico. This project will elevate HRI’s Tri-National Initiative by co-developing knowledge and tools to support the conservation and management strategies of HRI international partners. Therefore, the results of this project will equip, assist, and empower communities to manage and monitor their natural resources, strengthening the long-term sustainability of coral reefs in the Gulf of Mexico.

In her spare time, Dr. Bahr enjoys spending time with her two energetic Australian Shepherds.