Tampa Bay educator Remus Bulmer is on a mission to transform his shark research adventure into a classroom revolution. As the academic program director at St. Pete Collegiate’s STEM High School, Bulmer was hand-picked—one of only 28 individuals—to join the prestigious Bimini Shark Lab’s week-long nonprofit research excursion in the Bahamas. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is now fueling a much larger vision back home.
“We were going to meet them where they are to observe them in the natural habitat, so that was a very amazing experience,” Bulmer said.
Passion Meets Purpose in the Bahamas
While many might avoid the ocean’s apex predators, Bulmer leaned in. His selection by the Bimini Shark Lab wasn’t luck—it was aligned with two critical missions.
First, he’s helping launch a marine science program at St. Pete Collegiate STEM High School. Second, he’s advancing his graduate project with the University of Florida. This research, focused on tiger shark migration, is both timely and urgent, given growing concerns over marine ecosystems.
Science in the Field, and Now in the Classroom
At Florida State University, Bulmer’s initial studies of tiger sharks sparked a deep curiosity that continues today through his current research on migration patterns in and around Florida’s waters. But what truly excites him isn’t just the science—it’s what he can do with it back on dry land.
“It elevates the experience for me even more,” Bulmer explains. “It’s one thing to speak to it from a curriculum standpoint, but to be out doing the research that I’m also expecting my students to do… that’s once in a lifetime.”
Launching Marine Science at St. Pete Collegiate
In just a few weeks, the school will kick off the first phase of its marine science program. This includes brand-new marine science electives taught on St. Pete College’s main campus, where the high school is located. Bulmer is mentoring a newly hired teacher, helping design a dynamic curriculum and opening doors to real-world research opportunities.
His goal is clear: ignite student interest and create a generation of future scientists.
“We’re hoping this marine science program takes off… that we start to generate future scientists like we’ve been generating technology professionals,” Bulmer said. “Research should become part of what we do year after year.”
Changing Perceptions About Sharks
Bulmer isn’t just teaching students about marine life—he’s changing how people view sharks.
“They’re not mindless eating machines,” he emphasizes. “Yes, they pose a threat, but only a few species are responsible for most shark attacks.” By bringing real data, observations, and experiences into his lessons, he aims to create not just scientists, but informed citizens who understand how human activity impacts our oceans.
The Journey Continues
Bulmer isn’t slowing down. This week, he continues his shark research in South Florida, collaborating with local organizations to expand his work. His goal is to intertwine education, science, and conservation in ways that are both accessible and inspiring.
“I’m not encouraging everyone to get in the water with sharks,” he laughs, “but to appreciate them even from afar—and understand that our impact as humans affects them, our oceans, and ultimately, our planet.”
Hook for What’s Next
Remus Bulmer’s journey is only beginning—and so is the marine science wave he’s building in Tampa Bay. From the Bahamas to the classroom, one man’s passion is shaping the future of ocean education. Stay tuned, because the next generation of shark scientists might just be sitting in his classroom.
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