James holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Biology and a Master of Science degree in Conservation Biology/Ecology from the Florida Institute of Technology. His early research efforts included population studies of wetland fishes, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles. Following a few years as an environmental consultant, James decided to focus on education, first as an AmeriCorps member for two years, and later, as a professor at Brooklyn College.
The appeal of science education combined with community service proved too strong, so James put college teaching on hold to join the Peace Corps. They sent him to Ecuador to work on sustainable practices with a community of fishermen. He stayed an additional two years in Ecuador studying and protecting coastal forests with the Ceiba Foundation. In 2013, James returned to the U.S. and has called the Bay Area his home ever since.
Prior to joining Lindsay Wildlife Experience, James returned to teaching in two roles: biology professor at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, and Training/Education Coordinator at the California Academy of Sciences, where he still helps their marine mammal response team.
A strong advocate for science education and an ardent environmentalist, James enjoys sharing his passion for conservation and sustainability with all Lindsay guests and outside audiences. His team — the Education Department — works to implement new and inspiring programs so that Lindsay can be recognized as a leader in wildlife education and action.