The University of Exeter is a world-class, research-intensive institution. Ranked 2nd in the world for ecology and top 20 in the UK for biological sciences, the university brings deep scientific rigour and global authority to the front lines of marine conservation.
As global leaders in the fields of ecology, evolution, conservation biology, microbiology, marine science, and animal behaviour, Exeter’s researchers study both natural and human-influenced environments.
A cornerstone of their approach is exploring innovative environmental solutions that resonate globally while remaining deeply rooted in local impact. The University’s work directly contributes to our understanding of the planet’s diverse ecosystems, informs policy, and fosters sustainable coexistence between humanity and the natural world.
Based at the University of Exeter’s Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Callum uses rigorous scientific research to spearhead national and international ocean protection initiatives. His research group designed half a million square kilometres of marine protection in the North Atlantic, established by OSPAR in 2010. His team also developed the crucial scientific underpinning for the landmark UN target of 30% global ocean protection by 2030.
A prominent voice in public science education, Callum served as the chief scientific advisor for the BBC’s flagship television series Blue Planet II. He is also the author of several books documenting the shifting state of our oceans, including The Unnatural History of the Sea, Ocean of Life, and Reef Life: An Underwater Memoir, which focuses specifically on the precarious future of the world’s coral reefs. In addition to his role as Science Advisor to the Maldives Coral Institute, Callum works extensively with leading global conservation bodies including Blue Marine Foundation and Nekton.
Her broader research addresses the global necessity of scaling up ocean conservation by building connected networks of protected areas, which is a critical step for recovering ocean ecosystems and enhancing their resilience to climate change.
Passionate about training the next generation of environmental leaders, Julie created and serves as the Programme Director for the MSc in Marine Environmental Management at the University of Exeter’s Cornwall campus. Through this program, she prepares students to manage and protect vulnerable marine environments globally.
