My research is concerned with the spectral properties (fluorescence and reflectance) of
benthic (bottom-dwelling) marine organisms, especially corals. Our group is developing
instrumentation for in situ measurement of spectral fluorescence and reflectance
and applying this instrumentation to field research. We are currently involved with a
large-scale, multi-year project -- Coastal Benthic
Optical Properties -- funded by the Environmental Optics Program
of the Office of Naval Research. My work with coral optics grew out of an independent
project to take fluorescence photographs of corals and other organisms using ultraviolet
light. We have recently started a small venture, NightSea,
to offer equipment for viewing and photographing underwater fluorescence to the scientific
and sport diving communities.
One byproduct of my years of working on and under the water is far too much experience
with seasickness. This led me to write the humorous/historical book Heave Ho! My little green book of seasickness.
Explorers Club