Our Team

Marine biologist Dany Zbinden has been involved with research projects on whales of the Saint-Lawrence since 1993. As founder and director of the Mériscope since 2001, he has been promoting the development of our research base and the Mériscope team. Dany is directing the research and education program, but he is also engaged in public outreach. Since 2017, he participates in expeditions in Antarctica as guide and lecturer in marine biology during the Southern Hemisphere summer.

Dany: « The evolution towards an environmentally sustainable future of the species Homo sapiens imperatively requires the protection and research of global ecosystems – oceans, forests, polar regions. If we can engage young students in marine ecosystems today and give them technical skills as well as leadership qualities, then these people will be capable of making the right decisions tomorrow. »

Jacqueline (Jackie) Egger, a high school teacher in biology from Zurich, Switzerland, with a Master degree in zoology, has drawn upon her outstandig educational background to improve exhibits in several zoos and wildlife reserves. Jackie joined our team in 2017 and she is spearheading a new program for primary and high schools called « MérisCool ». She is also involved in the research program, particularly with coordinating all inputs to our photo-ID catalogue of minke whales, and serves as treasurer on the board.

Her husband, « Our field courses offer both young people in education and other nature enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to experience the sea and its inhabitants first-hand. They get insight into the broad work of field biologists, put in scientific context through workshops and lectures. My biggest wish is to set up a fund with the help of external support in order to allow young people with modest financial means to attend our courses, too. »

Ariane Bussières-Fournel, biology student at the University of Montreal, is a woman deeply involved in student life and society in general. Ariane joined our team in 2024 as a Youth and Women Ambassador, inspired by a study exchange in Tahiti, where she received training in marine biology at the University of French Polynesia. Equipped with a strong will, a sense of leadership and altruistic motivation, Ariane aims to create opportunities in the world of environmental science and biology for young people and women.

Ariane : « A person who is passionate, curious and supportive of their colleagues can tackle any project, defend any cause and inspire everyone around them to do the same. Protecting the environment requires recognizing the people who defend it. »