About Blake

About Blake

I grew up on the east coast of the United States. Self-proclaimed super nerd, I have always had endless curiosity, an immense appetite for learning, and an unwavering love for the water, animals and nature.

Following the completion of my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at James Madison University in Virginia (USA), I spent six months living and working in London, taking every opportunity to explore the UK and Europe on the weekends (and some cheeky weekdays). I then moved to Brisbane, Australia in 2004 to undertake my Honour’s degree in shark neuroscience at The University of Queensland.

In love with Australia, sharks and science, I returned to Brisbane in 2005 to pursue my PhD in the same lab. I explored shark development, neuroscience, ecology and animal husbandry. More importantly, I acquired critical skills in dealing with things that go wrong. What is it they say, ‘Never work with children or animals’? I can confirm that working with baby sharks certainly fits squarely into the ‘not for the faint hearted’ category! Still, my PhD proved to be an overwhelmingly powerful learning opportunity, in science, academia, working with industry, and overall personal growth. I came out the other side with not only a doctorate degree, but also the Dean’s Award for Research Higher Degree Theses and several journal publications. Against all odds (having HATED English as a subject for her entire life), I also developed a new passion during the process: science writing.

From Science… to Science Communication

Expertise Built on a Cross-Sectoral Career

Following my love of sharks, I then shifted gears to take on a role in the public aquarium industry. I worked as Animal Health Manager for a large public aquarium on Queensland’s beautiful Sunshine Coast. The position allowed me to continue my deep interest in research, while also teaching me valuable business skills and giving me intimate insight into the innerworkings of industry. I had ample opportunities for networking, initiating collaborations and working with a wide variety or research, government and industry organisations. My role entailed a great degree of stakeholder engagement, clever communication and people and project management.

Coming back to the tertiary education sector, I took on professional roles in research grant administration, student engagement and facility supervision. I also continued to dabble in scientific research, science communication and the delivery of educational programs for kids. If my face looks a bit familiar, it may be because you have seen me on the news talking about shark bites in Australia and around the world. Through my work on the highly emotive topic of shark bites, I thoroughly refined my skills in effectively communicating with extremely diverse (and often adamantly opinionated) audiences.

The Start of Something Beautiful

In 2015, I founded Blake Chapman Communication, and have never looked back. You would be hard-pressed to find another science writer with the passion and dedication I bring to your project. My intense love of science, reliance on data, and breadth of experience allows me to understand, research, develop and communicate concepts in truly unique ways. My 20 years of research and industry experience and technical knowledge will ensure that your application has been deeply considered—often in ways that you may not have thought of before—allowing you to put your best case forth.

When you come to Blake Chapman Communication for anything to do with grant writing or development, you’re guaranteed to work with me. And I cannot wait to work with you!