Owen Exeter is a Postdoctoral Researcher specialising in technology-driven marine monitoring to support the design and evaluation of marine protected areas (MPAs). His work focuses on identifying biodiversity hotspots and ecologically important habitats, particularly for endangered sharks, rays, and fish communities. By integrating biologging, satellite tracking, and underwater video systems (e.g., BRUVS), his research aims to generate spatial evidence of biodiversity patterns and ecological change to guide conservation action across seascapes.
Previously, his research has centred on developing cost-effective, scalable approaches for assessing MPA effectiveness in UK waters. He has contributed to studies using animal-borne cameras to investigate basking shark breeding behaviour, tagging blue sharks to quantify fisheries impacts, and applying nighttime satellite imagery to map fishing activity in data-poor regions. More recently, he has supported marine monitoring and capacity-building initiatives in West Africa and the Middle East, helping to inform conservation strategies for threatened species and priority ecosystems.
Overall, his work bridges emerging technology and applied conservation to strengthen the evidence base for protecting marine biodiversity and improving ocean management.
"I am passionate about doing research that has real-world conservation impact. I especially love using underwater cameras to reveal the hidden diversity of marine life, inspiring people to connect with and protect the ocean."