jreed12@hboi.fau.edu

John Reed is a Senior Research Scientist and Research Professor heading the Robertson Coral Reef and Conservation Program at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) at Florida Atlantic University. He has organized and supervised 60 collection expeditions worldwide for biomedical and exploratory research using HBOI’s research vessels and Johnson-Sea-Link and Clelia submersibles. These expeditions have resulted in the collection of over 30,000 marine specimens which are used for the discovery of novel compounds that may have therapeutic potential. His research specializes in the biology of deep-water reefs and taxonomy of reef organisms.

Recent research by Mr. Reed has resulted in the discovery of hundreds of deep-water coral reefs off the coast of Florida at depths of 1000 to 3000 feet which are now proposed as a 23,000 sq. mi. deep sea coral protected area. Thirty years ago Reed was instrumental in the discovery of the deep-water Oculina reefs off eastern Florida and establishing them as the Oculina Habitat Area of Particular Concern.

Mr. Reed’s research on deep-water reefs began 31 years ago when he started at HBOI for the Division of Marine Science. He has over 100 publications, including over 30 on Florida’s Oculina coral reefs. He received his B.S. degree from the University of Miami and M.S. from Florida Atlantic University in 1975.

Detailed CV