David Scheel

David Scheel, Ph.D., is a Professor of Marine Biology at Alaska Pacific University (APU), where he has been since 2000. He specializes in predator-prey ecology, evolutionary biology, and cephalopod biology, with a focus on marine ecosystems in Alaska and global collaborations. His work integrates field studies, laboratory research, and traditional ecological knowledge.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Ecology, University of Minnesota
• M.S. in Ecology, University of Minnesota
• B.S. in Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Research interests include the ecology of social predators, the evolution of consciousness, and the biology of Giant Pacific Octopus. His fieldwork spans Alaska, Africa, and Australia, including collaborations with Native Alaskan communities to study octopus ecology. Notably, his work with students led to the discovery of a new octopus species in Alaskan waters.

David is a NAUI-certified Rescue Diver and AAUS Scientific Diver, utilizing SCUBA and submersibles in his research. He also engages in wildlife photography and teaches courses in marine biology, aquarium husbandry, and animal behavior.