Mercer R. Brugler

Mercer R. Brugler, PhD, is a Professor of Marine Biology and Chair of the Department of Natural Sciences at the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB). He leads the Black Coral Lab, focusing on deep-sea biology, molecular systematics, and evolutionary history of marine invertebrates, particularly black corals. His work is supported by grants from NOAA, the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, and collaborations with the American Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian Institution.

• Education: PhD in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology (University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 2011), MS in Marine Biology (College of Charleston's Grice Marine Laboratory, 2004), BS in Marine Biology (University of Miami, 2001).

Brugler’s research spans evolutionary biology, genomics, and coastal/marine ecology. He has mentored undergraduates in NOAA-funded research cruises, with many advancing to prestigious graduate programs or careers in marine science institutions.

• Scientific Awards: Gerstner Scholar, Postdoctoral Fellow at AMNH's Sackler Institute.

His academic mission emphasizes recruiting and retaining underrepresented minorities in marine biology through hands-on research opportunities and institutional partnerships.