I am a marine biologist with expertise in deep-sea shark species. I am currently earning my PhD at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. I specialize in rare and deep-sea chondrichthyans (sharks and rays) and focus on new species descriptions, taxonomy, life histories, genetics, and tagging of poorly understood shark species. I use a variety of methods and equipment including environmental DNA, deep-sea cameras, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and satellite archival tags. I have discovered over a dozen new species of sharks in the Southern Indian Ocean, been the first scientist to data-tag a Megamouth Shark, and have accessioned over 500 specimens into museums across the globe including the Smithsonian and the California Academy of Sciences. I am working on new methods of molecular genetics and artificial intelligence to help us better collect data and understand remote regions of our oceans. My work has been featured in the Washington Post, the Smithsonian, the California Academy of Sciences, and on CNN.
As a researcher, I am committed to helping develop practical policies to conserve our marine environments. I have worked as a consultant for the United Nations, serving as a shark expert for a Food and Agriculture Organization’s research cruise. I am also committed to public understanding of science. I have produced several shark documentaries (which can be seen in my Public Outreach section).
Paul J. Clerkin 