Pioneer marine biologist Dr. Eugenie Clark has recently passed away in Sarasota, Florida from complications of lung cancer according to National Geographic. She leaves behind a nearly 75-year legacy of scientific research along with the Mote Marine Laboratory, where she was the founding director from 1955-1967.

Dr. Clark was an early adopter of scuba diving for research techniques, studying the behavior of sharks and other aquatic life in what was considered a male-dominated industry, and paved the way for other women such as Dr. Sylvia Earle. As an ardent supporter of sharks, she worked tirelessly to dispel the negative portrayal of sharks from movies such as 1975's Jaws, and helped instruct the public about their importance in marine ecosystems.

Read more about Dr. Clark in this interview from 2014 with Brooke Morton, where she reflects on her lifetime of fish study.

In lieu of flowers, the Mote Marine Labarotory has asked that donations be made here: www.mote.org/geniememorialfund.