Expedition Research

Expedition field research is one of the primary reasons that I became a scientist. Diving and exploration have been in my family since I was 3-years of age, myself an active diver for >40-years. I value the opportunity to combine these life-long skills with active research.

Each expedition integrates advances in mixed gas closed-circuit rebreather diving technology and field research to explore the unknown mesophotic depths of the Indo-Pacific; to conduct critical experimental procedures at depth, and to share discoveries with others. My research focuses on gorgonian (sea fan) corals, which are the dominant species group particularly at mesophotic depths. Therefore, research questions and objectives that investigate the biological success of gorgonian corals, particularly at mesophotic depths, drive the selection of sites.

There are two principle research objectives that determine the type and location of each expedition:

1. Exploration

2. Ecology

Research exploration is a qualitative process to determine suitable locations in order to discover new species to science and conduct research at mesophotic depths. Ecological research is quantitative, involving site characterisation and field experimentation. Both involve discovery particularly at these locations and mesophotic depths where new species, new species interactions, and previously unseen environments can be explored.