The Ocean Synthesis Lab, led by David Gill, assistant professor in marine science and conservation, focuses on the drivers, interactions and mechanisms that influence management outcomes in marine social-ecological systems.

With a global network of interdisciplinary practitioners and researchers, the lab integrates approaches from across natural and social science disciplines. It synthesizes datasets on marine systems around the world, including marine protected area management, oceanographic and climate data, underwater visual census surveys, socioeconomic monitoring data, to develop and test theories of the underlying factors that lead to equitable and sustainable outcomes, particularly in coastal communities vulnerable to social and environmental change. 

Ph.D. student Dana Grieco and Master of Environmental Management (MEM) student Ally Aplin recently shared insights into the Ocean Synthesis Lab, its research, their experience in the lab and the opportunities the lab offers Duke students.

What is the lab's research focus and what big questions is it trying to answer? 

Blue Justice FRB working group workshop

In our lab, we work alongside a global network of interdisciplinary practitioners and researchers to examine the factors that shape the effectiveness, and equity, of our efforts to manage and conserve the ocean. We bring together data, methods, and individuals across different disciplines, sectors, knowledge systems, and geographies to co-produce actionable insights and tools to help implementers answer big questions such as: “Does more equitable governance lead to better coral reef conservation?”, “How does the local social-ecological context affect the effectiveness and equity of coastal initiatives?”, “What evidence exists on approaches to sustainably and equitably managing ocean spaces in light of climate change?” and more.

To help answer questions such as these, research foci include marine conservation, small-scale fisheries, environmental justice, and climate change, particularly in less economically developed regions of the world. This includes research on the social and ecological impacts of marine conservation, climate effects on coral reef fisheries, the role of equity in capacity development and conservation initiatives, and more. We also aim to support science capacity strengthening and leadership in less economically developed regions by engaging in research partnerships that center on the priorities of local researchers, and by increasing the accessibility of tools and resources for monitoring, evaluating and learning (e.g., open-access datasets, low-cost monitoring techniques for data-poor fisheries, research training workshops, etc.). 

What has been your favorite or most rewarding experience in the lab so far? 

Bass Connections team members pose in front of research poster

MEM student Ally Aplin: As a master's student, the most rewarding aspect of my lab experience has been the diverse range of work I've engaged in. I’ve assisted Ph.D. student Dana Grieco with her research on the impacts of climate change on reef fish and fisheries through the Duke Bass Connections project, gaining valuable insights into systematic reviews. I’ve also started my own research on stakeholder involvement and procedural equity in marine protected areas (MPA) planning in the Caribbean, while mentoring an undergraduate assisting with my work. Additionally, lab meetings and seminar speakers have introduced me to many exciting projects.

Ph.D. student Dana Grieco: As a Ph.D. student, I have gained so much experience and perspective from being able to guide other students in the research space. This has allowed me to fully grasp what it means to be a project leader and mentor, while working through the excitement of being both the student and the teacher. In leading Duke Bass Connections teams for the past three years, I have been able to further our research while growing in my mentorship style. In understanding, and working through, the complexity of managing many research students at one time, I was so thankful to have my advisor, David Gill, as my own guide and teacher.

What opportunities does your lab offer students and how does that experience contribute to their academic and career growth? 

In our lab, Ph.D., master’s, and undergraduate students lead their own research (e.g. dissertations, Master’s Projects and senior theses) and contribute to ongoing collaborative research. Many of these collaborative research efforts are interdisciplinary and vertically-integrated (e.g. involving undergraduates & graduate students) projects involving students from diverse backgrounds including ecology, data science, environmental policy, conservation biology, and sociology. Students have an opportunity to directly engage with and co-develop research with partners on issues related to climate change, environmental governance, coral reef health, development aid and more. As such, students are able to present evidence-based insights and tools for sustainable and equitable resource management. Students can learn more about our work at our lab website.

Group photo of lab members at DUML

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 the Ocean Synthesis Lab on its website.