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Anamarija Frankic
Founding Director, Green Harbors Project & Biomimicry LivingLabs
Professional Background
Anamarija Frankic is a dedicated marine science researcher and educator whose passion for nature shines through her work in biomimicry and coastal issues. With a notable academic background and practical experience, Anamarija has dedicated her career to understanding the complexities of coastal ecosystems and exploring innovative solutions to environmental challenges. As a Research Professor at the University of Zadar, she contributes significantly to advancing knowledge in marine science, particularly tailored toward understanding and mitigating the impacts of coastal ecosystem changes both locally and globally. Anamarija's previous roles have demonstrated her commitment to advancing ecological conservation. As the Co-Founder of organizations such as CROdelicious.hr and the Native Oyster Reef Restoration Ireland (NORRI), she actively engages in initiatives aimed at preserving vital coastal habitats and promoting sustainable practices. Her diverse background reveals her multifaceted approach to environmental issues, spanning research, academia, and community-focused endeavors.
Education and Achievements
Anamarija’s educational background lays a strong foundation for her extensive research in coastal ecology. She earned her Ph.D. in Marine Science from the prestigious William & Mary, where she honed her skills in marine ecosystem analysis and effective conservation strategies. Prior to that, she completed both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biology Ecology from the University of Zagreb, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences and ecological systems.
In addition to her academic achievements, Anamarija has been recognized as a Fulbright Scholar at the University of Zadar, an honor that underscores her commitment to educational and cross-cultural exchange. This experience not only enriched her own academic journey but also allowed her to serve as a bridge between educational institutions while enhancing collaborative research efforts.
Notable Contributions
Anamarija’s contributions extend beyond academia. As the Director of the Green Harbors Project at UMass Boston, she led initiatives centered on the practical application of ecological principles to improve coastal community resilience. Her innovative approach focuses on harnessing natural ecosystems to guide urban planning and development, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthy coastal habitats. Similarly, her co-founding of Biomimicry New England reflects her belief in learning from nature to foster sustainable development in human societies. Biomimicry, as a revolutionary approach to design and problem-solving, has been a recurring theme in Anamarija's career, demonstrating her drive to inspire others through the integration of natural principles into our built environments.
Anamarija's tireless advocacy for local keystone species—particularly oysters—highlights her commitment to promoting biodiversity and ecological health. By educating communities about the significance of shellfish beds, salt marshes, and eel grass habitats, she empowers her audiences to appreciate and participate in conservation efforts actively. Her dedication to collaboration and communication in the field speaks to the heart of her mission: to ensure that true conservation, restoration, and resilience are attainable through collective understanding of ecosystem interconnections.
In all her professional endeavors, Anamarija Frankic remains an inspiring figure in the field of marine science, leading by example as she promotes a holistic, systems-focused approach to understanding our environment. Through her research, education, and advocacy, she embodies the belief that nature is resilient and that it is our role to foster this resilience in both natural and human-built systems.
