- 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
Previous slideNext slide
Sharks, skates and rays of the eastern Adriatic Sea
A thorough examination of Adriatic elasmobranchs presented across 330 pages. Delve into biological characteristics, occurrence patterns, threats, crucial habitats, and the overall challenges elasmobranchs face in the Adriatic Sea.
– Crafted through 18 regional research projects –
– Supported by the government of 3 Adriatic countries –
– Under the auspices of UNEP MAP – Barcelona Convention –
Author: Andrej A. Gajić, Ph.D. (Res)
We bring new knowledge
Fetured papers
Over the last decade, our researchers have published over 100 original scientific papers, communications, and conference proceedings; as well as two books focusing on Adriatic elasmobranchs.
Gajić et al., 2024
Journal of Fish Biology
First description of leucism in deep-sea angular rough shark and first pigment disorder in rough sharks
Gajić & Sulikowski, 2024
Mediterranean Marine Science
From rarity to reality: the hidden abundance of the critically endangered deep-sea little gulper shark in the Adriatic Sea
Gajić, 2024
Marine Biodiversity
The first report of adult blues shark surviving severe head impalement by a swordfish
Gajić & Karalić, 2024
Animal Conservation
Re-discovery of the critically endangered Spiny Butterfly Ray in the Adriatic Sea and a plausible nursery area
Gajić, 2024
Aquatic Conservation
Exploring the elusive deep-sea sevengill shark in the Adriatic Sea: novel records, health and conservation
Gajić et al., 2023
Journal of Fish Biology
The first records of gravid spiny butterfly ray in the northern Mediterranean, with fetuses
Gajić et al., 2022
Journal of Fish Biology
Contemporary records of the rare and critically endangered rough shark from the eastern Adriatic Sea
Gajić, 2022
Croatian Journal of Fisheries
New hope for the critically endangered common angel sharks (Squtina squatina) in the Adriatic Sea