David Eggleston

Dr. David Eggleston is an Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor and Director of the Center for Marine Sciences and Technology (CMAST) at NC State University. He leads the Marine Ecology and Conservation program, focusing on fisheries ecology, habitat restoration, and deep-sea biology. His research integrates field observations, modeling, and molecular tools to address ecological theory and sustainable resource management. Eggleston holds affiliations with the Department of Marine, Earth & Atmospheric Sciences and serves on national/international advisory boards.

His academic roles include teaching courses like Introduction to Oceanography and Marine Benthic Ecology. Eggleston’s research spans tropical to temperate marine systems, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches linking biology, physics, and economics. Awards include NSF’s Early Career Award and recognition in teaching/outreach. Current students focus on topics like oyster reef acoustics, coral reef soundscapes, and blue crab habitat dynamics.

Eggleston’s lab emphasizes graduate mentorship, fostering future leaders in academia and resource management. Outreach initiatives include Ecological Synergism and educational tools like The Blue Crab in NC. Collaborative projects involve NOAA, The Nature Conservancy, and international marine organizations.