Charlotte Findlay

Charlotte Findlay is an Assistant Professor at Heriot-Watt University, affiliated with the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society and the Institute for Life and Earth Sciences. Her research focuses on marine ecology and conservation, particularly the impacts of human-made underwater noise on marine mammals such as seals and porpoises.

Her work lies at the intersection of marine ecology, underwater acoustics, and marine management, aiming to develop practical, evidence-based solutions for conservation. Key research themes include anthropogenic noise pollution, vessel traffic impacts, acoustic deterrent devices in aquaculture, and marine spatial planning. She employs advanced methods in spatial data analysis, programming, and passive acoustic monitoring.

The recent publications (2023–2024) reveal a strong trend toward policy-relevant science, with studies published in Science Advances and Biological Conservation directly informing noise mitigation strategies, shipping regulations, and marine conservation planning. Her research has significant implications for sustainable development, especially SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Seal of Excellence (2022)
• RAIN Fellowship (2023)
• The Deans’ List of Academic Excellence (2016)
• The Graham Kerr Memorial Prize (2015)

Dr. Findlay actively collaborates with international institutions such as Aarhus University and Danish Centre for Environment and Energy, and her work is supported by competitive fellowships and research grants. She contributes to commissioned reports for environmental agencies, bridging science and policy. She is involved in large-scale research networks and has a growing impact in marine conservation science.

She is a key contributor to projects involving underwater soundscape modeling, vessel noise reduction, and marine mammal behavior studies. Her affiliations with research consortia and environmental protection agencies highlight her role in shaping marine noise policy and conservation strategy.