Meet Dr. Jennifer Brandon: Transforming How We Detect Microplastics

In this groundbreaking keynote, Dr. Jennifer Brandon shares her vision for transforming how we detect and monitor microplastic pollution.

June 25, 2027

"Changing the way microplastics are measured, for a future of cleaner water."

In this groundbreaking keynote, Dr. Jennifer Brandon shares her vision for transforming how we detect and monitor microplastic pollution. As the creator of the Hyperspectral Ultrasonic MicroPlastic Bulk Acoustic Characterization (HUMPBAC) Sensor, Jenni has developed the world's first real-time, flow-through sensor for microplastics - giving scientists, nonprofits, and water utilities a faster, more affordable way to monitor water quality. Her innovative technology is helping advance the fight against one of our planet's most pressing environmental challenges.

Jenni is a PhD marine biologist and ecologist who has spent much of the last decade researching plastic pollution. She has developed multiple new scientific techniques and has been interviewed dozens of times for her expertise in marine plastics, including by NPR, The New Yorker, and the BBC. In her career, she has managed projects around multiple aspects of conservation and climate change for various stakeholders, including NGOs, government entities, foundations, family offices, and impact investors. She has worked on various aspects of climate change, from the ecological impacts of shipping in the Arctic, the future of water in California, blue carbon and carbon credits, and the impacts of climate change on African agriculture. Her climate consulting firm, Wild Beacon Consulting, focuses on helping climate investors and philanthropists with their giving strategy and scientific due diligence.

Jenni holds a MS in Marine Biology and PhD in Biological Oceanography from Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego.

Learn more about Jenni

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Stories

A series of entries from our Walking Softer community that inform, inspire and support change on our planet.

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