Eric J. Schott

Dr. Eric J. Schott is an Associate Research Professor at the Institute of Marine & Environmental Technology (IMET) within the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES). He has been in this position since 2010, following his earlier work at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute since 1997. His primary roles include research on marine pathogens, particularly in blue crabs, and science education outreach.

Dr. Schott holds a B.A. in Biology from Reed College (1985) and a Ph.D. in Genetics from Harvard University Medical School (1993). His research focuses on molecular parasitology, aquatic health, and the discovery of marine pathogens. He has pioneered molecular tools to detect and monitor viruses like CsRV1 in blue crabs, contributing to understanding their epidemiology and impact on fisheries.

His research interests also include science communication in urban and fishing communities and biodiversity in urban estuaries, such as Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Dr. Schott has collaborated on studies assessing the health of urban waterways and their ecosystems, leveraging meta-DNA barcoding and water quality monitoring.

Dr. Schott has mentored students, including high school and visiting PhD researchers, and served on the Maryland Oyster Advisory Commission since 2010. His recent work includes presentations on blue crab population dynamics and legislative advocacy for Bay health. He teaches courses on Chesapeake Bay fisheries diseases and marine biotechnology.

His lab actively investigates viral and parasitic threats to marine species, with a focus on applying molecular techniques to ecological and public health challenges. Current projects include understanding the genetic diversity of CsRV1 across geographic regions and evaluating restoration strategies for urban estuaries.

Dr. Schott’s contributions span interdisciplinary collaborations, NOAA-funded initiatives, and public engagement, bridging academic research with practical applications in conservation and education.