Professor John HR Burns

Associate Professor at UH Hilo

Hilo, Hawaii

Secretary of the MEGA Lab and Associate Professor at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo. Prof. Burns specializes in coral reef ecology and data science. His research uses novel modeling techniques to characterize some of the most resilient reefs on the planet. His work has been highlighted by Rolex, National Geographic, Forbes, and Surfer Magazine. He has also contributed to award-winning documentaries such as Chasing Coral, Reefs at Risk, and Island Earth. 

Professor Haunani Kane

Assistant Professor at UH Manoa

KAILUA, OAHU

Chair of the MEGA Lab, Prof. Kane is the first Native Hawaiian woman to receive her doctorate in geology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Her work primarily focuses on low lying island resilience as a result of climate change. She was an integral part of the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s worldwide voyage, lending her services as both a traditional navigator as well as the director of sciences. She has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, New Scientist, LA Times and Hawaii Business Magazine.

Professor Cliff Kapono

Assistant Professor at Arizona State University

Hilo, Hawaii

Vice Chair of the MEGA Lab, Cliff Kapono is a professional surfer, chemist and journalist. Born on the eastern shores of Hawai‘i, his life involves equal parts science as it does surf. While contributing several peer-reviewed publications to the fields of molecular bioscience, he has also produced a handful of award-winning films that discuss indigenous activism, ocean conservation, global food security and virtual reality. He has been profiled in publications such as The New York Times, NBC, CBS, Surfer Magazine, and more. 

  • ATSUKO FUKUNAGA

    CHIBA, JAPAN

  • CRISPIN NAKOa

    HILO, HAWAII

  • KAILEY PASCOE

    KANEOHE, OAHU

  • KAINALU STEWARD

    LAHAINA, MAUI

  • BILLY WICKENS

    SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA