Steve Gaines

Steve Gaines is the Dean of the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). He holds the title of Distinguished Professor and serves as the Director of the UCSB Marine Science Institute. His roles include leadership positions such as Acting Dean of Science and Acting Vice Chancellor for Research at UCSB. He leads the Gaines Lab, which focuses on marine social-ecological systems and innovative solutions for ocean challenges.

Dr. Gaines earned a PhD in Ecology from Oregon State University and a BS in Biology from the University of California, Irvine.

His research emphasizes marine ecology, sustainable fisheries, and the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems. He explores marine reserve design, fisheries management strategies, and the integration of aquaculture with conservation efforts. His work often bridges ecological and socioeconomic dimensions to address global challenges, such as food security and biodiversity protection.

Recent publications highlight his work on small-scale fisheries governance, the effects of climate change on marine protected areas, and the synergies between aquaculture and global food stability. He also investigates trade dynamics in aquatic food systems and the ecological implications of ocean management policies.

Dr. Gaines mentors a diverse group of PhD students researching topics such as fisheries management, marine mammal conservation, and coastal policy. His lab collaborates with NGOs, governments, and industry leaders through initiatives like the Sustainable Fisheries Group, which seeks scalable solutions for global fisheries.

His research is conducted through the Gaines Lab at UCSB, part of the Bren School and Marine Science Institute. The lab’s interdisciplinary approach combines marine ecology, economics, and social science to drive actionable conservation strategies.