Marine ecologist · Data scientist · Conservationist

Brendan Shea

Studying how sharks and large marine predators move through the ocean — and using that data to inform how we protect them.

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Brendan Shea in the field

About

Following predators through open water

I am a marine ecologist, data scientist, and conservationist working to inform the conservation of large marine predators — in particular sharks. My research centers on the movements, space use, and spatial distribution of animals, with additional focus on predator–prey dynamics and evaluating marine protected areas as a tool for conservation.

I combine advanced spatial and quantitative analyses with established field methods — acoustic and satellite telemetry, biologging, and baited remote underwater video (BRUVs) — to answer these questions.

I hold a PhD in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences from Virginia Tech and an MS in Marine Biology from Northeastern University, and currently serve as Associate Director, Science Programs at the conservation NGO Beneath the Waves.

Research focus

Four threads, one ocean

01

Movement ecology

Tracking space use and vertical/horizontal movement patterns of sharks and other predators via satellite and acoustic telemetry.

02

Predator–prey dynamics

Understanding how the presence of large sharks shapes the behavior and distribution of prey species.

03

MPA effectiveness

Evaluating marine protected areas as a conservation tool for wide-ranging, migratory species.

04

Biologging & field tech

Applying tools like BRUVs, biologging tags, and 360° camera systems to answer questions the data can't otherwise reach.

Off the water

Other parts of life

When I'm not on the water for research, you can typically find me near it for something else: surfing, kayaking, fishing, diving, or spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy skateboarding, hockey, hiking, and just about everything Boston sports.