Melissa Pappas is a science communicator and creative strategist who works at the intersection of science, storytelling, art and design. With a background in marine science research in Saudi Arabia and Australia, she brings scientific expertise and creative direction to projects that make complex research more accessible, engaging, and meaningful to broader audiences. She is the founder and creative director of Emerging Creatives of Science (ECOS), a science x art agency and community connecting scientists, artists, and creative professionals to explore new ways of communicating science.

Through her work with The Hydrous, Pappas supports strategic communications, brand development, and storytelling that help translate the organization’s scientific research and immersive experiences into compelling narratives for diverse audiences. She works to articulate the value of The Hydrous’ approach to ocean learning, highlighting how science, technology, and storytelling can work together to foster understanding, emotional connection, and ocean stewardship.