NC Sea Grant Names 2025-2026 Hook, Line & Science Communication Fellow

Mason Ibrahim is the 2025-2026 Hook, Line & Science Communication Fellow. She will work alongside Sea Grant fisheries specialists to communicate recent ocean-related research to anglers and others through North Carolina Sea Grant’s award-winning Hook, Line & Science series.

Ibrahim is a current master’s candidate at Duke University, where she received the Nicholas School of the Environment’s Marine Science and Conservation Scholarship in Fall 2023. Her concentrations include Coastal and Marine Systems and Environmental Analytics and Modeling.

Ibrahim holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental biology from the University of North Carolina Greensboro and has experience researching wetland restoration. She also has worked with various conservation organizations.

“I’m especially passionate about helping inform the local community, not only by sharing the information they’re seeking, but also by introducing science deeply connected to their livelihood or craft,” says Ibrahim. “I believe it’s essential to make science more accessible, especially for those most directly impacted by it.”

Scott Baker and Sara Mirabilio’s research blog Hook, Line, and Science has provided updates regarding topics of interest to all fish and fishing enthusiasts since 2018.

“Excellent communication skills are vital to a successful science career,” says Mirabilio. “When research findings are communicated concisely and simply, it can build support for research, influence behavior, and support informed decision-making at the individual, community, and governmental levels to help solve societal issues.”

Ibrahim’s fellowship is a year-long assignment during which she will summarize recent ocean and fisheries science in lay-friendly posts.

Ibrahim’s first piece for Hook, Line & Science discussed the effects of expanding the Panama Canal on local species. The study is universal, facilitating understandings of how human development can change fisheries ecosystems.

“We can’t wait to get started with Mason,” says Baker. “In today’s world, communication skills really should be required training for every scientist — and this fellowship provides ample practical writing experience.”