Carol Sparling

Carol Sparling is a Principal Investigator at the University of St Andrews' School of Biology and Director of the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) within the Scottish Oceans Institute. Her work focuses on marine mammal ecology, tidal energy impact assessment, and environmental monitoring.

• Director of Sea Mammal Research Unit
• Scottish Oceans Institute affiliation
• Active in NERC-funded tidal energy research
• Collaborates with Natural England and marine energy sectors

Her research explores marine mammal behavior around tidal turbines, collision risk assessment, and environmental impact mitigation. Recent publications examine seal avoidance patterns, acoustic deterrents, and cumulative effects of marine energy developments.

Key projects include SMRU NERC NC NPG Round 2 (2024-2029) and Photo-ID of bottlenose dolphins. She contributes to Marine Mammal Scientific Support Research Programme reports and develops monitoring technologies like multibeam sonar systems.

Carol also serves as external examiner for PhD theses and provides expert consultancy to organizations like Police Scotland. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 14 (Life Below Water) and 7 (Affordable & Clean Energy).