Dr. Austin Gallagher
BIOLOGIST
TV HOST
PRODUCER
ENTREPRENEUR
Dr. Austin Gallagher is a globally recognized biologist and leader in the field of marine science. His work operates at the intersection of ocean science, species conservation, biomedical discovery, and human health — grounded in expertise on some of the largest species to ever live on Earth, such sharks, whales, and other ocean giants.
As the Founder and CEO of Beneath The Waves, Dr. Gallagher has built one of the fastest-growing ocean research nonprofits in the world. Under 10+ years of his leadership, the organization has launched pioneering programs in the study of blue carbon, deep-sea exploration, and marine protected areas, combining exploration and data to shape international policy and scale nature-based solutions globally.
A prolific researcher, Dr. Gallagher has authored over 130 peer-reviewed publications and collaborates with leading experts in medical science, bioinspiration and engineering, and environmental studies. His research has contributed to the discovery of new species and entire ecosystems, including the world’s largest seagrass meadow — a finding that redefined global carbon storage estimates and helped catalyze new areas of the blue economy. Dr. Gallagher regularly advises international bodies such as the United Nations and has worked with over a dozen heads of state to advance conservation legislation on a regional and global scale.
Dr. Gallagher is also a social entrepreneur, founding ventures that translate cutting-edge marine discoveries into real-world market-based solutions across conservation, carbon finance, and environmental health. Named a Forbes 30 Under 30, Fulbright Distinguished Scholar, and National Geographic Explorer, he is a frequent keynote speaker, television presenter, and advisor to governments, foundations, and the private sector.
Austin’s work is driven by a mission to accelerate ocean discovery and improve ocean and human health, by connecting awe-inspiring science, innovation, and leadership across disciplines and sectors.
At A Glance
- 🦈 Marine biologist and global conservation leader
- 🌍 Expeditions in 20+ countries; led 60+ field missions
- 🧬 130+ peer-reviewed publications | 3 books
- 🐋 Lead scientist on discoveryof the ocean’s largest carbon sink
- 🧠 Cross-disciplinary focus: ocean science, biomedicine, tech
- 📽 TV personality: Shark Week, NatGeo, CNN, Discovery
- 🏆 Fulbright Scholar | Forbes 30 Under 30 | Blue Marine Science Award
- 🌐 Advisor to UN, governments, and NGOs
- 🎓 PhD – University of Miami | MS – Northeastern | BA – Loyola Maryland