Xinyan Lin is a Ph.D. student in Marine Science and Conservation at Duke University Marine Laboratory. She studies coastal and ocean governance, political ecology, and ontological politics. Her research seeks to understand the dynamics of science and bridge the gap between science and society in the governance of marine fisheries and biodiversity conservation.  Xinyan also studies the role of philanthropy in ocean governance and works in advisory roles for philanthropic foundations investing in marine conservation in China. Originally from China, Xinyan holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from the Graduate Institute, Geneva, and a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Management from the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.