Overview
David’s research centers on marine coupled human-natural systems, focusing predominantly on marine management and tropical coral reef systems. Overall, his research aims to provide evidence-based insights into how marine management and conservation can lead to equitable and sustainable outcomes. This work is by nature both interdisciplinary and collaborative, drawing on key theories and analytical approaches from disciplines such as economics, community ecology, and political science, and working alongside researchers and practitioners to co-develop salient research questions, approaches and dissemination pathways. His recent work includes global and regional assessments of the social and ecological impacts of marine conservation, justice and equity considerations in marine governance, and developing cost-effective approaches for monitoring socioecological systems in capacity-limited regions.
David holds an MSc and PhD from the Centre of Resource Management and Environmental Studies, University of the West Indies, Barbados. His post-graduate career included two years as a Luc Hoffmann Fellow at the National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center (SESYNC; 2014-2016) and a David H. Smith Conservation fellowship (2016-2018) based at George Mason University and Conservation International.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Recent Publications
Reimagining coral reef futures
Journal Article Npj Ocean Sustainability · December 1, 2026 Coral reefs are vital social-ecological systems, but highly vulnerable to global change and local stressors. While conveying the urgency of existential threats is paramount, bleak outlooks can become self-reinforcing, limiting capacities to act. To counter ... Full text CiteGovernance Arrangements That Fit Social-Ecological Context Are Associated With Fishery Sustainability
Journal Article Fish and Fisheries · March 1, 2026 In many parts of the world, natural resources are primarily managed by governance arrangements at the local level. Those arrangements range from collective, such as cooperatives and associations, to individualistic, such as patrons and owner-operators. A k ... Full text CiteThe Ocean Equity Index.
Journal Article Nature · February 2026 The ocean is essential for humanity1-3. Yet, inequity in ocean-based activities is widespread and accelerating4-8. Addressing this requires governance approaches that can systematically measure equity and track progress9. H ... Full text CiteRecent Grants
Advancing Ocean Equity
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Nature Conservancy · 2025 - 2028Social justice in marine protected areas: understanding the differential impacts of marine threats and management actions within coastal communities
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Society for Conservation Biology · 2021 - 2025Capacity Development for Coral Reef Science and Conservation in the Bird's Head Seascape
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Walton Family Foundation · 2020 - 2024View All Grants