Michael Chambers

Michael Chambers is a distinguished faculty member at the Agriculture University of New Hampshire, where he serves as a Research Associate Professor and Aquaculture Extension Specialist. With a career deeply rooted in the advancement of open ocean farming technology, Chambers has made significant contributions to the field, working in diverse regions such as the Gulf of Mexico, Hawaii, the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea. His expertise in aquaculture is recognized globally, and he is committed to fostering sustainable practices in marine farming. Chambers' academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology/Limnology from the University of Wisconsin. He further honed his expertise by earning a Master of Science in Mariculture from Texas A&M University, followed by a Ph.D. in Zoology/Animal Biology from the University of New Hampshire. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his pioneering work in aquaculture and marine biology. In 2000, Chambers took on the role of Project Manager at the University of New Hampshire's Open Ocean Aquaculture Project and the Atlantic Marine Aquaculture Center. Under his leadership, the project has successfully cultured a variety of species at its demonstration farm, located 13 kilometers offshore. This initiative has been instrumental in showcasing the potential of open ocean aquaculture and its role in sustainable seafood production. Beyond his research and project management roles, Chambers is dedicated to education and outreach. He has been actively involved in training fishermen and farmers in small-scale, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture. His work with steelhead trout, blue mussels, and sugar kelp on floating platforms has provided valuable insights into the benefits of multi-species farming systems, promoting ecological balance and economic viability. Chambers' research interests are centered around multi-trophic aquaculture, open-ocean farming, and the broader field of aquaculture. His work continues to influence the development of innovative aquaculture practices that aim to meet the growing global demand for seafood while minimizing environmental impact. Through his efforts, Chambers is helping to shape the future of sustainable marine farming, ensuring that it remains a viable and responsible industry for generations to come.