Christopher Goatley

Dr. Christopher Goatley is a Lecturer in Marine Biology and Ecology at the University of Southampton, based at the National Oceanography Centre. He leads research on reef fish functional ecology, focusing on biomechanics and ecosystem roles of cryptobenthic reef fishes. His work integrates field studies, morphological analysis, and molecular techniques.

Education:

• PhD in Marine Biology, James Cook University (2015)
• MAppSc in Tropical Marine Ecology & Fisheries, James Cook University (2009)
• BSc (Hons) Marine Biology, Newcastle University (2006)

Research Interests: Fish ecology, evolution, and biogeography; impacts of sediments on coral reefs; palaeoecology of reef ecosystems. His current projects explore tiny reef fish (cryptobenthic) lifecycles and ecosystem contributions using 3D imaging and lab-based studies.

Editorial Roles:

• Member, Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries (2019–)
• Member, Fishes (2022–)
• Member, Journal of the Marine Biological Association UK (2023–)

Grants & Collaborations: Led the Lizard Island Postdoctoral Fellowship and contributed to multi-trophic studies on oil spills and coral reef resilience.

Labs & Teams: Based at the National Oceanography Centre, collaborating with institutions globally on reef fish ecology and conservation.