Neil Crooks

Neil Crooks is a Principal Lecturer in the School of Applied Sciences at the University of Brighton. He holds academic leadership roles as Subject Lead for Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and oversees the Environmental Biology pathway and Integrated Foundation Year. His career spans academic and practical environmental roles, including previous positions at Sparsholt College and fieldwork in South Africa examining shark behavior.

Education: PhD (University of Portsmouth, 2011) on shark dermal structures; BSc Marine Biology (University of Portsmouth, 2003); BA Physical Education & Art (University of Brighton, 1995).

Research focuses on aquatic organism ecology, with emphasis on pollutant impacts (microplastics, nanoparticles, effluents) on fish and invertebrates. Key areas include larval fish vulnerability, elasmobranch behavior in captivity, and aquaculture sustainability. Collaborations include the Centre for Aquatic Environments and Kwazulu Natal Sharks Board.

Teaching spans freshwater/marine ecosystems, fisheries management, and field skills across multiple campuses. He integrates practical fieldwork and research projects into student learning, supervising studies on microplastic pollution, aquaculture, and endangered species conservation.