Introducing Our New Senior Instructor in Fisheries, Centre for Maritime and Ocean Studies
Dr. Shivonne M. Peters-McPherson
Senior Instructor - Fisheries, UTT Marine Sciences Unit

Dr Shivonne M. Peters-McPherson is a marine scientist, marine spatial planner and environmental management specialist with expertise in marine protected area management, coastal habitat assessment, stakeholder engagement, sustainable development and blue economy planning. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Sciences and Master of Science in Integrated Coastal and Ocean Management, both from UTT, and a master’s degree in Environment and Sustainable Development from University College London.

Her doctoral research focused on developing a model Marine Spatial Plan for Tobago’s Buccoo Reef Marine Park. Using ecological and socioeconomic assessments, her work examined how zoning, stakeholder participation and collaborative planning could strengthen marine conservation, support livelihoods and tourism, and improve the management of competing uses within the marine park.

Her research also explores how the use of technology and an understanding of community perspectives can support marine conservation. She conducted a study using drones to map coastal habitats within the Buccoo Reef Marine Park, demonstrating their value as an efficient and cost-effective tool for monitoring marine protected areas in Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean. Additionally, her research on the socioeconomic dimensions of the Buccoo Reef also examined tourism-related activities and stakeholder perceptions of different management approaches, with the aim of supporting conservation and the sustainable use of the area.

Dr Peters-McPherson’s professional experience spans academia, environmental consulting, policy development and public-sector leadership. She previously served as Policy Advisor inthe Office of the Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly and Marine Park Manager for the Buccoo Reef. Her consultancy work has spanned numerous Caribbean countries and covered areas including sustainable development and environmental management and protection. Through her teaching, research and regional consultancy work, she continues to promote sustainable ocean governance, informed decision-making and the protection of coastal and marine ecosystems.

View the programmes here - https://utt.edu.tt/marine/programmes