Dr. Erik Franklin is an Associate Research Professor at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawaii, where he leads the Ocean FEAST lab focused on scientific innovation to support sustainable seafood and marine resource management. Dr. Franklin has published over 80 peer-reviewed papers in leading journals such as Nature Ecology & Evolution, Coral Reefs, Marine Policy, and Nature Climate Change. Additionally, he serves on the Scientific and Statistical Committee of the U.S. Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, where he has chaired seven stock assessment review panels. Relevant to the SAFET Conference 2026 objectives, Dr. Franklin’s lab research includes AI computer vision models for monitoring fish populations, constructing low-cost underwater cameras, developing a smart wave-powered FAD buoy, and using UUVs to enhance the scope of marine data collection. His work bridges the gap between advanced technology and applied management to enhance the resilience of tropical fisheries in a changing ocean.
Role: Panellist, Participant
Sessions
- Day 2 — Open Table: Emerging Technologies updates
- Day 2 — Panel "Emerging Technologies updates"
