Matthew Doherty
Google Scholar | Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
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I am an experienced marine biologist with a specialisation in coral ecosystem dynamics, backed by extensive research experience across diverse marine environments including the Caribbean, Red Sea, Tropical Pacific, and Western Indian Ocean. My research is driven by a commitment to understanding the resilience and adaptation of coral reefs in the face of environmental stressors, particularly in light of climate change. In my formative research, I primarily focused on mesophotic coral ecosystems, leveraging my expertise as a technical diver to explore these deeper, less studied regions of the ocean.
For my Ph.D., I am engaged in a comprehensive study that involves gathering and synthesizing large-scale monitoring data from various regions to assess the broader regional responses of coral ecosystems to environmental changes. A significant aspect of my research is centered on the current strong ENSO event, which is providing a unique opportunity to examine the impacts of extreme climatic events on coral reefs. By analysing these large datasets, I aim to contribute to the development of more effective conservation strategies that can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on these critical ecosystems.
I am advised by Richard Preziosi, Nicola Foster, and Miriam Reverter of the University of Plymouth, and Matthieu Leray of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.
