The Shark Research Unit

Learn more and sign up at: www.shark-research.com For inquiries, contact Nico Booyens at nico@shark-research.com. Dive in and make a difference!

If you have a passion for sharks, conservation, or the ocean in general, join us! You don’t need to be a scientist—our programs at The Shark Research Unit are tailored to suit a variety of interests and backgrounds.

Week 1 in Durban has been highly productive and enriching. The The Shark Research Unit team successfully adapted to the new location, and the dives were filled with significant marine life encounters and valuable learning experiences. We look forward to the upcoming weeks and further exploration. DEEPSEA MGZN

“Our research team has had a fantastic time exploring and documenting the remarkable biodiversity of the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area. If you're interested in marine biology, join us to gain practical skills and valuable field experience.” The Shark Research Unit

At the The Shark Research Unit we utilize I3S computer software to identify ragged-tooth sharks by matching each shark's unique spot pattern in our database. Join us in September, October, and November while space is still available.

Despite their reputation, blacktip sharks are generally not interested in attacking humans. These sharks primarily feed on small fish and invertebrates, and most encounters with people are simply cases of mistaken identity. Their primary interest is in prey that fits their diet, not in humans.

Introducing one of our newest team members, Keynan ! Hi, my name is Keynan. I'm 17 and currently living in Switzerland. I'm working on a seven-month school project focused on shark conservation. I was born in South Africa, and have developed a deep fascination with wildlife, I'm equally passionate about the ocean. I love surfing and have a keen interest in marine life, which is why I decided to join the Shark Research Unit.

Every person has a choice—exploit or conserve, turn a blind eye or stand and fight. Everyone in our society plays a critical role in making this choice. At the Shark Research Unit, we choose to fight for sharks through generating passion in our youth, conducting groundbreaking scientific research and leading shark and marine conservation campaigns. We hope you join us and stand with the sharks and support our work to fight for their protection. We strive to use all the money you invest into the Shark Research Unit to advance our shark research, education and conservation campaigns.

Today, our team set out to gather data on great white shark populations. While we didn't have the fortune of encountering a great white shark up close, some days are just like that. However, the ocean graced us with nearly perfect conditions—crystal-clear waters and minimal swell. Amidst our expedition, we were delighted to spot humpback dolphins (Sousa sahulensis), a Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni), and hundreds of Cape Gannets (Morus capensis) plunging into bait balls. Among the highlights was encountering our beloved resident harbor Cape Fur Seal, affectionately named Benji. #GreatWhiteSharks 🦈 #OceanExpedition #MarineLife #HumpbackDolphins #BrydesWhale #CapeGannets #WildlifeSpotting #CapeFurSeal #Benji 🌊

Hey my name is Jackson Clement McNee. I'm a 26 year old psychology graduate. I was born in Australia but grew up in Papua New Guinea before moving back to Australia to finish high school and University My two main passions are environmental conservation and football (soccer). During my psychology degree I found myself becoming more interested in how we could help change human behaviour to become more environmentally conscious. I found that a more practical/community based approach suited my skill set the most. Whilst living in central Australia I worked on a variety of issues stemming from water conservation, dingo safety and plant protection. My love for sharks started after my first great white shark cage dive in south Australia. Through some research and a very productive chat with Nico, I found that doing an internship with the Shark Research Unit would give me the best opportunity to combine my passions of active community engagement and working with sharks.