Zachary Zirbel earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 2023 from California State University Monterey Bay. There, he participated in multiple undergraduate research programs with the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories. These projects included reproductive rates and sexual competition in multiple kelp species (Macrocystis pyrifera, Egregia menziesii), as well as taxonomic investigations of a deep-sea carnivorous sponge. His research with MLML will consist of subtidal sponge morphology and behavior through in situ observations, as well as laboratory experiments. When not working on his studies, you can find Zach tinkering with his 3D printer, hiking, or playing with his kitten.