Nicole Esteban

Dr. Nicole Esteban is an Associate Professor of Marine Ecology at Swansea University, affiliated with the School of Biosciences, Geography and Physics. With over 20 years of experience in tropical coastal zone management, she specializes in marine conservation, sea turtle ecology, and biodiversity protection. Her work integrates field research with policy and community engagement, particularly in the Caribbean, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean. She leads the Swansea Marine Conservation & Ecology Lab and has contributed to Protected Area Management Plans and Environmental Impact Assessments globally.

Her research focuses on spatial ecology of marine fauna, especially sea turtles, exploring habitat use, nesting behavior, and climate change impacts. Notable achievements include tracking migratory patterns of endangered species and identifying critical habitats such as submerged banks. Dr. Esteban is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and has secured grants totaling over £680,000, including projects in the British Indian Ocean Territory.

Teaching includes modules on tropical marine ecology and professional skills in marine biology, emphasizing employability through fieldwork and consultancy techniques. Her work bridges academia and conservation practice, with over 100 peer-reviewed publications and global collaborations.