David Willer

Dr David Willer is a Research Fellow at the Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, and serves as a College Teaching Officer in Natural Sciences. He works at the Conservation Research Institute as part of the Aquatic Ecology Group, focusing on innovative research at the intersection of environmental sustainability and human nutrition.

His research interests include:

• Aquaculture
• Food Security
• Planetary Health
• Human Health
• Conservation Biology
• Biodiversity
• Climate Change
• Ecosystem Sustainability

Dr Willer leads groundbreaking research on innovation in underexploited fish and seafood sectors, with particular emphasis on developing novel aquaculture production systems. His work focuses on bivalve shellfish (clams, mussels, and oysters) which offer rich protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential micronutrients with a lower environmental footprint than terrestrial meats. Key projects include the development of 'Naked Clam' aquaculture involving shell-less clams that feed on wood and grow significantly faster than traditional bivalves, and 'Urban Bivalve' production systems designed for higher quality, improved food safety, and expanded accessibility in new locations.

He conducts behavioral choice experiments across university canteens to identify effective strategies for increasing consumption of sustainable seafood options, while also investigating the role of seafood in maternal and infant health, processing methods for mass-market adoption, and utilization of seafood by-products. His policy-related work develops metrics and tools to assess production efficiency and environmental footprint in aquaculture systems.

Dr Willer collaborates with global food manufacturers across the supply chain to bring bivalve-based foods to consumer markets and is actively accepting PhD student applications.