Join The University of Alabama Museums for a FREE and all-ages program with Award-Winning Marine Biologist, Dr. David Shiffman.
For the inaugural John S. Steiner Endowed Lecture, Dr. Shiffman is visiting The University of Alabama’s Math and Science Education Building (Room 1001) on September 16, 2023 at 11:00 am to give a free presentation on “Why Sharks Matter: The Science and Policy of Saving Sharks” and sign copies of his book, Why Sharks Matter: A Deep Dive with the World’s Most Misunderstood Predator.
While this event is free of charge, register in advance by completing this online registration form. Immediately following the lecture, there will be a reception and book signing with light refreshments at the Alabama Museum of Natural History’s Grand Gallery in Smith Hall.
Why Sharks Matter
Sharks are some of the most fascinating, most ecologically important, most misunderstood, and most threatened animals on Earth. Learn all about them from marine conservation biologist Dr. David Shiffman, the author of the new book, Why Sharks Matter: A Deep Dive with the World’s Most Misunderstood Predator. In Why Sharks Matter, marine conservation biologist Dr. David Shiffman explains why it’s crucial that we overcome our misconceptions and rise above cinematic jump scares to embrace sharks as the imperiled and elegant ocean guardians they really are. Exploring the core tenets of shark conservation science and policy, Shiffman synthesizes decades of scientific research and policymaking, weaving it into a narrative full of humor and adventure. Touching on everything from Shark Week to shark fin soup, overfishing to marine sanctuaries, Shiffman reveals why sharks are in trouble, why we should care, and how we can save them. Perfect for shark enthusiasts, Why Sharks Matter is an approachable, informative guide to the world of shark conservation and the passionate, fascinating, brilliant people who work to understand and protect our oceans. This fun read will have you looking at sharks with a fresh perspective and an understanding that the survival of sharks is crucial to the survival of another apex predator—ourselves.
About the Speaker
Dr. David Shiffman is an interdisciplinary marine conservation biologist who studies threatened sharks and how to protect them. He is research faculty at Arizona State University’s Washington, DC campus. His writings have appeared in National Geographic, The Washington Post, Scientific American, and a monthly column in Scuba Diving Magazine. Follow him on social media @WhySharksMatter (on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook) where he’s always happy to answer any questions anyone has about sharks.
“People are interested in sharks. They have misconceptions about them and things they’d like to know more about and I see it as part of my job to talk to the public,” said Dr. David Shiffman. “I have been traveling all over the world talking about Why Sharks Matter. The University of Alabama will be my 58th talk. I absolutely love doing this and am excited to see the Alabama Museum of Natural History and meet with students.”