Dr. Cinda P. Scott completed her Ph.D. in 2009 at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science in Marine Biology and Fisheries with a focus in molecular evolutionary genomics. Since 2014, she has directed The School for Field Studies, Center for Tropical Island Biodiversity Studies program in Bocas del Toro, Panamá. She manages a team of faculty, staff and students dedicated to the study of anthropogenic impacts of tourism on the natural environment. Her current research examines the health and complexity of mangrove ecosystems throughout the Bocas del Toro archipelago and she maintains interests in marine protected areas, coral reef ecology, and conservation biology.

Cinda is a lifelong dancer. She has danced since she can remember and especially enjoys contemporary dance. She teaches dance aerobics to students and friends when she can. She also enjoys being in the ocean whenever possible. Exploring and snorkeling in the mangrove roots of Bocas del Toro is her favorite pastime.