- Research
Pathology
The effects of pollution on disease development
Microplastics
A comprehensive exploration through qualitative and quantitative analysis of miro- and nanoplastics
Radiology
Harnessing MRI to investigate post-capture trauma
Morphology
Unveiling the intricacies of morphological adaptations and their significance
Field study
Our field research is all-encompassing, including
- Underwater exploration
- Technical deep diving
- ROV surveys
- Photo/Videography
Fishery surveys
We dedicate over 170 days in the field to monitor trawlers and improve post-release survival.
Current Research
At the heart of our activities lies multidisciplinary cutting-edge research, where we delve into the ecology, pathology, and conservation of elasmobranchs.
Current projects (4) run in the Mediterranean Sea, funded by: Nat Geo, Explorers Club, Discovery, Rufford and Bin Zayed.
- Publications
Publications
Through the past 10 years, our researchers has published and mentored:
- 3 Books and monographs
- 37 Journal articles
- 33 Conference proceedings
- 5 Master's thesis
- 11 Bachelor's degrees
You can download most of our publications for free
New Book!
Shark, skates and rays of the eastern Adriatic Sea
Author Andrej A. Gajić
Comprehensive review of 60 species, 330 pages, supported by ministries of three countries!
Based on projects:
– Rufford Foundation (5)
– National Geographic (2)
– Discovery Channel (2)
– Foundation Ensemble (1)
– PADI Foundation (1)
– Ministry of Science (5)
– Explorers Club (2)UNDER THE AUSPICIES OF
Featured papers
Original research
The first record of gravid Gymnura altavela in the northern Mediterranean Sea, with description of foetuses
Original research
Contemporary records of the rare and critically endangered angular rough shark (Oxynotus centrina) from Adriatic Sea
- Projects
Current projects
The effects of pollution and habitat loss on elasmobrachs disease development
Reviving the Lost Legacy: First data of Gymnura altavela and new hope for conservation
Rescue, rehabilitation, tagging and re-introduction of sharks, skates and rays
What lurks in the depths? Exploring the diversity of deep-sea elasmobranchs
We are backed by the most esteemed and competitive foundations globally, along with the support of the European Union, the governments of Adriatic countries, and UNEP MAP Barcelona Convention.
Projects by category
- Pathology & Toxicology (4)
- Ecology & Conservation (12)
- Tertiary education (3)
- Policy making & Advocacy (2)
- Media
IN MEDIA
Our work is highly recognized across the globe, with more than 300 media appearances.
Besides, we partner with the worlds leading media to educate wider public and raise awareness on conservation, sustainable development and key environmental issues.
National Geographic
We had dozens of engagements for NatGeo and NatGeo WILD
Don’t miss our feature on disease studies airing during NatGeo Sharkfest! Watch it here!
National Geographic Magazine Download our features below:
Through Explorers Classroom we have lectured over 15.000 students from 75 countries.
Featured appearance
Some of the most important features are given below:
“Plastic Sharks” and “What lurks in the depths?!”
- About us
Our Story
Despite growing up in the mountains of a war-torn country, far from the sea, Andrej founded Sharklab while still in the high school back in 2007.
Today, we are a recognized research institution delivering essential data for conservation and receiving numerous awards and extensive media coverage.
How we are funded?
We are funded through a combination of competitive international grants and governmental instruments.
How we spend funds?
Of the acquired funds, 55% goes to fieldwork, 25% to laboratories, 15% to education, and 5% to other costs.
Honors & Awards
2022: Honorary award of UNEP MAP Barcelona Convention
2021: Special Governmental Recognition of Excellence
2020: National Geographic EC Leadership Award
2019: Man of the Year awarded
to our CEO, Andrej GajićOur Team
Lear more about the people who make it happen
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We bring new knowledge
Scientific Research
At the heart of our activities lies multidisciplinary cutting-edge research, where we delve into the ecology, pathology, and conservation of elasmobranchs
The deep-sea research
Diving deep into the mysteries of the abyss, uncovering the secrets of elusive and endangered deep-sea species of the northern Mediterranean Sea
Post-capture survival
We utilize pathology, radiology, and histology for a comprehensive understanding of health and post-capture survival rates
From rarity to reality
Unveiling groundbreaking data on elusive elasmobranchs from the northern Mediterranean, derived from systematic field research
Rediscovering species
Through our systematic field research and monitoring we have rediscovered populations of species thought to be extinct in the region.
Internship program
Check our recent calls and reflecting on successful internships, where valuable skills were gained, connections made, and memorable experiences cherished
Field Research
Engaged in the forefront of marine exploration, our team is actively conducting cutting-edge underwater research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge. Leveraging a dynamic approach, we employ a combination of immersive diving experiences and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys. Besides, we play a crucial role in comprehensive fishery monitoring. This involves conducting meticulous trawl surveys designed not only to understand the marine ecosystem but also to enhance post-capture survival strategies. We dedicate more than 120 days annually to fieldwork!
Working with Sharks
Diving into the world of sharks is an exhilarating experience. As I descend beneath the waves, the ocean comes alive with these majestic creatures. The play of sunlight dances on their sleek bodies as they gracefully navigate their underwater realm. This endeavor is more than just a job; it’s a profound privilege to witness the beauty and unravel the mysteries of sharks up close. Each dive is a unique exploration, offering fresh insights into their intricate behaviors and reinforcing a deep respect for these incredible beings. The underwater encounters with sharks serve as a constant reminder of the importance of their conservation. Support our work to save them!
FIELD RESEARCH
Engaged in the forefront of marine exploration, our team is actively conducting cutting-edge underwater research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge. Leveraging a dynamic approach, we employ a combination of immersive diving experiences and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys. Besides, we play a crucial role in comprehensive fishery monitoring. This involves conducting meticulous trawl surveys designed not only to understand the marine ecosystem but also to enhance post-capture survival strategies. We dedicate more than 120 days annually to fieldwork!
Sharklab ADRIA Celebrates
Andrea G. Martin successfully defended their Master’s theses at University of Ghent!
Andrea G. Martin, an alumna of Sharklab ADRIA, has successfully defended her master’s thesis titled ‘Population Biology and Health of Deep-Sea Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus) in the Southern Adriatic Sea’ during the Annual Symposium in Nice, France. Supervised by Andrej Gajić, and conducted at our center, the thesis marks a milestone by providing the first-ever data on the population of blackmouth catsharks in the southern Adriatic Sea, along with pioneering evidence of their post-capture survival. Andrea initially joined our center through an internship in 2023 and returned to complete her thesis in 2024. We are immensely proud of her achievements and wish her continued success in her career.
Emilie De Loose successfully defended their Master’s theses at University of Ghent!
Emilie De Loose, a dedicated alumna, has successfully defended her master’s thesis titled ‘The Current State of the Population of Blackspotted Smooth-Houndshark (Mustelus punctulatus) in the Southern Adriatic Sea’ during the Annual Symposium in Nice, France. Supervised by Andrej Gajić and conducted at our center, her research delivered crucial data offering initial insights into the population dynamics and threats facing vulnerable and commercially targeted smoothhound sharks in the southern Adriatic Sea. Emilie, one of our pioneering interns in Albania, chose to return to complete her thesis in 2024. We are immensely proud of her and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
New Knowledge & Effective Solutions
Featured Papers
Gajić, A. (2024). Exploring the elusive deep-sea sharpnose sevengill shark (Heptranchias perlo) in the Adriatic Sea: novel records, health assessments and conservation implications.
Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 34(3), e4122.
Gajić, A. (2022). New hope for critically endangered angel shark, Squatina squatina, in the eastern Adriatic Sea.
Croatian Journal of Fisheries, 80(1), 1-8.
Gajić, A., Karalić, E., Beširović, H., & Sulikowski, J. (2023). The first record of gravid Spiny butterfly ray (Gymnura altavela) in the northern Mediterranean, with description of near-term fetuses.
Journal of Fish Biology, 102(6): 1506 – 1509.
Gajić, A., Lelo, S., Joksimović, A., Pešić, A., Tomanić, J., Beširović, H., & Dragičević, B. (2022). Contemporary records of the rare and critically endangered rough shark (Oxynotus centrina) from the Adriatic Sea.
Journal of Fish Biology, 100(1), 329-334.
In the Media
Our groundbreaking results and impactful activities have garnered global media attention, with our scientists being featured in over 300 appearances across the planet.
Watch some of them below:
- National Geographic Spot
- NatGeo WILD Sharkfest
- CNN affiliates apparencies
- Deutsche Welle Global 3000
- TED Talk: Masarikova
New Knowledge & Effective Solutions
Featured Projects
What lurks in the depths?
Discovering and protecting the most bizarre, the most unknown and the most interesting deep-sea species
Andrej A. Gajić
TEC Discovery Channel
New hope for Angel sharks
Discovering and protection the most endangered sharks in the world and giving them a secong chance
Andrej A. Gajić
Foundation Ensemble
Exploring Sharks of Albania
Rescue, rehabilitation, tagging (acoustic telemetry) and re-introduction in southern Adriatic Sea of Albania
Andrej A. Gajić
Rufford Foundation
Sandbar sharks
Exploring and protecting Sandbar Sharks throught the Mediterranean Sea
Cattano, C., Gajić, A., Livne, L., Scheinin, A., Medine, S.
National Geographic
Spiny Butterfly Ray
First data on population and nursery area of the critically endangered spiny butterfly ray in the Adriatic Sea
Emina Karalić
Bin Zayed Conservation Fund
In the Adriatic-Ionian region, we have completed 21 projects since 2017.
View all projects
Biodiversity and habitats, Fishery monitoring, Plastics, Disease development, Conservation, and more…
Sandbar sharks
Exploring and protecting Sandbar Sharks throught the Mediterranean Sea
Cattano, C., Gajić, A., Livne, L., Scheinin, A., Medine, S.
National Geographic
Spiny Butterfly Ray
First data on population and nursery area of the critically endangered spiny butterfly ray in the Adriatic Sea
Emina Karalić
Bin Zayed Conservation Fund
In the Adriatic-Ionian region, we have completed 21 projects since 2017.
View all projects
Biodiversity and habitats, Fishery monitoring, Plastics, Disease development, Conservation, and more…
OUR ACTIVITIES AND STUDIED ARE FUNDED AND SUPPORTED BY OUR AWESOME
PARTNERS
2023 in pictures
While our utmost efforts are dedicated to reviving and releasing live individuals, those that have succumbed are utilized for laboratory research. Throughout 2023, we examined over 6,500 specimens representing 28 species, encompassing nearly half of the elasmobranchs documented in the Adriatic Sea. The study unveiled vital data for numerous species that were previously unknown in the region before our research. Importantly, our commitment remains unwavering—we neither kill nor harm any individuals in the pursuit of knowledge.
2023 in pictures
Throughout 2023, we examined over 6,500 specimens representing 28 species, encompassing nearly half of the elasmobranchs documented in the Adriatic Sea. Importantly, our commitment remains unwavering—we neither kill nor harm any individuals in the pursuit of knowledge.
Open Call for 2024/2025
Internships &
Master's
We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a passion for working with marine fauna, particularly sharks, to gain invaluable experience.
Additionally, we welcome master’s students to develop their theses through our scientific research.
Revive & Release
Enhancing
survival rates
Improving post-release survival rates in sharks involves using non-barbed circle hooks, proper handling techniques, and implementing stricter fishing regulations to reduce stress and injury during catch-and-release practices.
- agajic@sharklab-adria.org
- 00387 (0)61 078 104 (BA)
- 00355 (0)69 533 6652 (AL)
- Vlorë (Albania), Il-Hamrun (Malta), Sarajevo (Bosnia-Herzegovina)
ACTIVITIES
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GET INVOLVED
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- Student internship
- M.Sc./Ph.D. thesis
- Adopt a shark
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