Frances Robertson

Marine Researcher and Marine Mammal Observer

Frances is a research biologist with a special interest in cetacean biology and ecology.  Her experiences have taken her from the terrestrial side of primate research in Africa to cetacean research in Scotland, Canada and the US.  She obtained a Masters of Research in marine and fisheries science from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland in 2004. Her Master’s research centred around the effects of aquaculture activities on marine coastal ecosystems, in particular the displacement effects of acoustic seal deterrents on harbour porpoise and pinnipeds. The results of this study were presented at the 2005 ECS conference and a report of the work was also published in the conference proceedings.

Frances’ marine research has focused on a variety of species, including the resident killer whales of the pacific west coast, harbour porpoises and minke whales, and has covered key areas of conservation research.  She has investigated the use of a reserve by killer whales in British Columbia and how this usage is impacted by the presence of boats. This work lead to her involvement in a NOAA funded study that was investigating the impacts of boat presence on the threatened southern resident killer whales in Washington State.

Most recently Frances has joined the ongoing minke project in the San Juan Islands, US.  This work focuses on habitat use, photo-identification requiring photographic and boat driving skills. Frances has extensive experience in remote field locations, she has set up and run her own field projects and has experience in liaising with both the public and industry through interpretive education talks and presentations.  Frances is a qualified marine mammal medic, trained in the rescue and care of stranded cetaceans, she also has specialist skills in cetacean identification, theodolite tracking and acoustic monitoring, specifically involving the Chelonia T-POD porpoise click detector.

return to marine team personnel page