Lauren Piot joins PICRC as new Aquarium Researcher

The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is pleased to welcome Lauren Piot, a 25-year-old French American, as a new Aquarium Researcher.

Lauren holds an MSc in Environment, Politics, and Development from The School of Oriental and African Studies University of London, and an MSc in Marine Systems and Policies from the University of Edinburgh. Her interdisciplinary background in environmental policy and marine conservation gives her a well-rounded perspective on protecting marine environments.

Her passion for marine conservation has taken her around the world. Before coming to Palau, she volunteered on a turtle conservation project in Costa Rica, conducted fieldwork in the Maldives to study the impact of land reclamation on coral reefs, and surveyed kelp forests in Scotland to assess climate change’s impacts on seaweed.

At PICRC, Lauren is leading a project to develop a climate-smart framework for managing and preparing Palau’s coral reefs for future climate threats. This project includes community consultations, coral reef restoration training, and a pilot coral outplanting initiative.

“It has been a dream come true to work in Palau,” Lauren stated. “I wake up every day knowing that what I’m working on will help protect coral reefs and Palau’s stunning marine biodiversity for future generations amid climate change.”

With her passion for marine conservation, extensive knowledge, and enthusiasm for community engagement, Lauren is a valuable addition to the PICRC team. We look forward to seeing the positive impact she will make in protecting Palau’s reefs.