Meet the Team
Director of External Affairs
Kirk Linaje
My name is Kirk and I am a born and raised Miamian with over 20 years of knowledge and experience in cetacean biology, marine animal rescue, local ecology, and environmental science. I am committed to the protection and improvement of our natural resources through enhancing local research and continued environmental education.
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Director of Operations
Thomas J. Morrell
Starting as a University of Miami contractor for NOAA in 2013, I eventually transitioned from fish larvae to highly migratory species. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Florida in 2012 and my master’s degree in marine and environmental science from Nova Southeastern University in 2019. My experiences range from Great White Shark tagging in South Africa to sea turtle nesting surveys and marine mammal rescues here in South Florida. My passions are focused on the ocean, environment, and conservation. As a resident of South Florida, I'm hoping to help preserve our home through education, research, outreach, and wish to help others here in our community do the same.
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Stacy Assael
Director of Internal Affairs
After moving to Miami in 2010 to pursue my master's degree at the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science I found my footing in the Magic City as an educator. After working in several informal education institutions my desire to be an active marine science researcher was superseded by a growing responsibility to teach. I am proud to be a member of the MORAES Team, where we can engage community members on meaningful ways to study, understand, preserve and restore the parts of Miami that make it truly special.
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Kristen Weber
Program Coordinator
My name is Kristen Weber, and I graduated with my Master's of Professional Science from the University of Miami. My focus in my Master's program was marine mammal science and I am especially interested in marine mammal medicine and conservation. I am originally from Northern California and moved to Miami last year after completing my undergraduate degree in the California Bay Area. I enjoy surfing, being out on boats, hiking, and running.
Sea Turtle Project Permit Holder & Lead Surveyor
Sarah Beggerly
Sarah has been volunteering with MORAES since 2021 and became the Sea Turtle Project permit holder in 2024.
2026 Interns
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Ciara Hughes
Outreach and Conservation Intern
I am a Junior at the University of Miami studying Marine Biology and Ecology, with a Minor in Ecosystem Science and Policy. I am originally from the South Shore of Massachusetts and have spent my whole life by the water. In my free time, I obviously love going to the beach, but I also love making art, baking, doing yoga, and hiking. After graduating, I plan to pursue a PhD, focusing on Marine Megafauna Biology. I am so excited to take on this position with MORAES, and I can’t wait to see what the team accomplishes this year!
Alyssa Yost
Sea Turtle Nesting Survey Intern