WAVE believes research is a powerful tool for protecting wildlife, advancing conservation, and building a better understanding of our planet. While we are in the early stages of developing our research initiatives, our long-term goal is to support and conduct studies that lead to innovative solutions for environmental and animal welfare challenges.

Group of people at the beach observing a rescue or research operation involving a seal in a fenced enclosure, with a duck nearby.

Our Research

Visions


Our research vision explores the connections between aquatic life, environmental health, and human impact. We’re laying the groundwork for innovative, hands-on research experience. We’re also passionate about understanding how people engage with conservation - combining science and community outreach to inspire lasting change. As we grow, our goal is to empower students, educators, and citizen scientists to take part in research that not only informs but transforms

Scenic view of a calm, blue lake with clear water, rocks in the foreground, and a distant shoreline with a forested cliff under a cloudy sunset sky.

Freshwater Ecosystems

Monitoring the health of lakes, rivers, and wetlands, studying native vs. invasive species dynamics, and evaluating fish populations and their breeding behaviors.

A clownfish swimming among pink sea anemone tentacles in an underwater scene.

Animal Welfare

Focusing on Aquatic animal stress and enrichment while studying rehabilitation in aquarium settings, aquaculture labs, and pet stores. Finding solutions to the pet industry problems through breeding and shipment changes.

Silhouette of a person wearing a headset looking out of an aircraft window at the blue sky.

Tech-Integrated Research

Working to find a way to use ROVs and underwater cameras to drive research and education.

Close-up of branching coral colony with a small yellow fish hiding among the branches.

Coral Biology

Studying coral science and finding solutions to coral bleaching. While also utilizing aquarium and hobbyists to assist in coral conservation.