Dr. Chelsea Koch

Dr. Chelsea Koch is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at American University, specializing in Arctic marine ecology and biogeochemistry. Her research uses lipid biomarkers and stable isotopes to understand ecosystem change, particularly related to declining sea ice. Her research emphasizes the co-production of knowledge, working closely with Indigenous communities to bridge diverse perspectives in Arctic science and promote ethical research practices. She has served in various science administration roles with the National Science Foundation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, contributing to global efforts in ocean sustainability and equity in research. Dr. Koch is currently involved in collaborative projects on contaminants in Arctic seabirds, community-based monitoring of walruses, community subsistence adaptations, and the establishment of repositories for Arctic marine samples.