The KrillSeeker Lab
Exploring our changing ocean through the eyes of krill
Professor Kim Bernard is a biological oceanographer whose research focuses on Antarctic krill and the ecosystems they support. Her work integrates long-term field observations, physiological and ecological measurements, and historical datasets to understand how Antarctic marine ecosystems are responding to rapid environmental change. She has spent more than 40 cumulative months in Antarctica, including five summer field seasons and three winter-over deployments, an experience that has shaped her immersive, observation-driven approach to science.
Although her career has included work across multiple marine systems, Antarctica has remained her central scientific focus. Bernard’s research is grounded in extended field presence, deep synthesis of long-term data, and international collaboration, reflecting a commitment to understanding Antarctic ecosystems at the scale and depth they demand. She is a National Geographic Explorer and currently serves in leadership roles that support long-term Antarctic research and conservation at a critical moment for the Southern Ocean.
Professor Bernard gave the opening talk at the 2025 National Geographic Explorers Festival in Washington, D.C. (Photo credit: Joy Asico Smith, National Geographic)
In her role as a National Geographic Explorer, Bernard contributes to expedition-based Antarctic research and communicates scientific discovery to global audiences. This work emphasizes immersion, observation-driven insight, and the translation of Antarctic science into broader understanding of climate change and ecosystem stewardship.