Kristian Metcalfe

I have very broad research interests covering marine spatial planning, marine protected area design, spatial ecology, fisheries, and marine turtles. Much of my research takes place in lower-income (or ODA eligible) countries where I work with local partners (principally the Wildlife Conservation Society) and national implementing agencies to enhance capacity and increase protection of marine biodiversity. My research involves employing novel methods and technologies to integrate both ocean resource user-groups (who are often marginalised due to a lack of data and engagement) and biodiversity into decision making processes to inform the development of priority areas, and to resolve conflicts in marine space. Ultimately, I am passionate about ensuring that conservation decisions are underpinned by scientific evidence. In terms of education I teach on field courses in Africa and the UK, as well as the application of GIS in conservation science, as I am passionate about providing students with the skills that are essential for a career in the conservation sector.

Marine Spatial Planning

Marine ecosystems are under pressure, and in the rush to safeguard our oceans, conservationists are pinning their hopes on marine protected areas (MPAs), with the aim of meeting a diverse set of conservation, social and economic objectives. My research interests cover: (1) mapping the spatial distribution of ecological processes and biological features as well the social and economic interests of different user groups; and (2) investigating the trade-offs in MPA design to design new regulations that better balance conservation objectives and stakeholder interests.

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Fisheries

Coastal and marine ecosystems contribute to the livelihoods and well-being of 10% of the world’s population, and so are home to a diverse range of fishing fleets, ranging from small-scale artisanal or inshore fisheries to large-scale industrial fleets, all of which employ a broad range of fishing gears and practices. My research interests cover: (1) understanding spatial patterns of resource use for small-scale and industrial fishers through application of GPS tracking and analyses of VMS data; and (2) quantifying the social and economic contribution of small fisheries and their vulnerability to IUU fishing.

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Marine Turtles

The management of widely dispersed marine vertebrates can be facilitated by better understanding their distribution, density, population trends and threats at local and regional scales. Unfortunately, for some populations of marine turtle spatial and temporal data are often lacking, particularly along the Atlantic coast of Africa, a region which is considered globally important. My research interests cover: (1) generating population estimates for rookeries in Central Africa (Gabon and the Republic of the Congo); and (2) developing a better understanding of at sea movements to facilitate more effective marine spatial planning efforts.

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