Thornton Blair

Professor Thornton Blair is a Professor of Marine Autonomy at the University of Southampton, leading research in marine robotics and seafloor imaging. His work focuses on developing low-cost benthic drifters and intelligent robotic platforms for underwater exploration. He directs the In situ and Remote Intelligent Sensing (IRIS) center, which develops next-generation sensing systems for environmental challenges.

His primary research interests include:

• Seafloor 3D visual reconstruction using deep-sea imaging hardware
• Automated interpretation of seafloor imagery through AI methods
• Development of long-endurance seafloor imaging floats and maneuverable robotic platforms