Joseph O'Malley

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

I specialize in the biology, life history, population dynamics, and ecology of fish and invertebrate species that are valued for commercial, recreational, and subsistence purposes. This information is critical for assessing the health of their populations and ensuring sustainable fisheries management (i.e., the use of responsible fishing practices today ensuring that future generations can also benefit from fishing). As a member of the Pelagic Research Program, I focus on the ecosystem that is essential to fish species such as tuna, billfish, mahimahi, and ono, and how changes in the ecosystem may impact these species' populations and the fisheries that rely on them. We employee various methodologies to achieve our goals, including environmental DNA (eDNA), active acoustics, fishing nets, and the analysis of both fishing and oceanographic data.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I’ve wanted to be a marine biologist for as long as I can remember. I believe that my interest was sparked from playing on the beach, fishing, and keeping an aquarium as a kid. My specialization in fisheries science developed after college when I began to interacting with fishermen and learning about the species they catch. These experiences fostered my interest in conducting research on valuable fish species and their associated fisheries.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

It is challenging to identify a single individual, as I have been fortunate to be supported by my family, friends, early educators and ultimately, the professionals who served as my mentors.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

The most fascinating aspect of my work is my continual astonishment with marine species. I frequently have new and exciting experiences or twists and turns in my career where I learn new things. And, of course, meeting remarkable people and visiting amazing places, especially during my time at-sea.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

NOAA reached out to the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center for someone to conduct the eDNA sampling and record the active acoustics, and I eagerly accepted the opportunity.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I’ve had many great jobs in the past as I’ve been involved in various fisheries. These include Alaska and Pacific Northwest salmon, trout, and groundfish (e.g., rockfish, sablefish); Northwestern Hawaiian Islands spiny and slipper lobster; and bottomfish (e.g., snappers, groupers) and pelagic fish (e.g., tuna, billfish) from the Hawaiian, Samoan, and Marianas Archipelagos.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Bachelor of Science in Zoology with emphasis in ichthyology – University of Rhode Island
Masters of Science in Fisheries Science – Oregon State University
Ph.D. in Zoology – University of Hawaii at Manoa

What are your hobbies?

I like dirt biking, mountain biking, backpacking, fishing, ocean sports, and live music.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

I recommend starting as early as possible. Don’t hesitate to expose yourself to as many opportunities as possible; join researchers as volunteers or interns, take training sessions, apply for entry-level jobs, and talk to as many people as you can to build lasting connections. Most importantly, have fun!