The Read Lab, led by Andy Read, Stephen Toth Distinguished Professor of Marine Biology and director of the Duke University Marine Laboratory, focuses on the conservation biology and ecology of marine vertebrates.
The lab is interested in the life history and population dynamics of threatened and endangered species, the application of spatial analysis to marine ecosystems, the intersection of oceanography and foraging ecology and the development of new approaches to conservation. Its research approaches include fieldwork, laboratory research and modeling. It is committed to seeking practical solutions to marine conservation problems and working toward their implementation.
Ph.D. students Maddie Paris and Arona Bender recently shared insights into the Read Lab, its research, their experience in the lab and the opportunities the lab offers Duke students.
Arona Bender relocating a leatherback sea turtle nest. Credit: Kelly R. Stewart
The Read Lab focuses on the ecology and conservation of marine vertebrates, including cetaceans, seals, sea turtles, and seabirds. We’re interested in trying to understand how these animals interact with their environment and then translating that knowledge into conservation interventions. We ask questions about where animals are, where they go, how many there are, how they interact with one another, how they interact with human activities, what people think of them, and how different strategies might affect their conservation.
Some of our current research includes understanding the effects of Navy tactical sonars on beaked whales, studying the historical ecology of bottlenose dolphins in the Chesapeake Bay, examining the bycatch of whales and dolphins in Indian Ocean tuna drift gillnet fisheries, analyzing group decision-making in pilot whales, exploring the range expansion of harbor seals in North Carolina, and assessing the movement patterns of sea turtles in Guyana.
Paris: I’ve been able to work with a Duke undergraduate student, Anna Ochs, on a systematic literature review and have found that experience to be really rewarding. It’s been great to see her grow, invest in the research, and tell others about it. She’s part of the reason that I decided to pursue a Bass Connections project that I’ll be leading next year. I’m excited by the opportunity to work with more students and support them in their research journeys.
Bender: My most rewarding experience in the lab so far has been conducting fieldwork on the remote beaches of the Shell Beach Protected Area in Guyana. It is an incredible honor to contribute meaningful research in my home country, especially in a region where the in-water ecology of sea turtles remains relatively understudied. This project has also reinforced what I believe to be one of the most vital aspects of research collaboration. Building relationships with local communities, stakeholders, and agencies requires time and effort, but the connections fostered through this process are invaluable and deeply rewarding. Equally rewarding has been the support and guidance of my committee members, who challenge and encourage me in ways that push me to become a better scientist. Their mentorship has been instrumental in shaping not only my research but also my growth as a marine conservationist.
The Read Lab allows students to lead their own projects and work on research that really interests them, providing the flexibility to tailor their graduate experience to their unique goals. The lab focuses on the development of novel conservation tools and approaches through modeling, laboratory research, and fieldwork, giving students a range of opportunities to engage in hands-on conservation science.
We are able to conduct fieldwork and collect our own data, providing us with opportunities to lead, plan, and manage field logistics. While we work on different projects, we are all very supportive of one another, creating a friendly community to help us grow. Whether it’s sharing feedback on research ideas, troubleshooting field and analytical challenges, or simply offering encouragement, the lab environment promotes teamwork and mutual learning.
Andy is great about connecting students with colleagues and other opportunities to collaborate, which helps students refine their research and build a network.
Maddie Paris taking photographs of bottlenose dolphins for photo-ID. Credit: Katie Knotek
Each month the Nicholas School will highlight the work of one of its labs through the lens of lab members. For more information on Duke Environment research visit our research page and to keep up with the latest news, subscribe to our monthly Research + Impact email newsletter. Explore more about Read Lab on its website.
Banner image credit: Deanna Rees
