Who We Are

The IUCN SSC Coral Specialist Group (CSG) brings together the world’s leading coral scientists, practitioners, and conservationists under the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). As part of the IUCN SSC, we contribute to the Red List assessment of coral species, collaborate on cutting-edge research, and provide expertise on coral reef conservation challenges worldwide.

Our Team

The IUCN SSC Coral Specialist Group (CSG) is guided by a team of accomplished scientists, conservationists, and practitioners dedicated to the protection of coral species and ecosystems. The group’s leadership combines substantial scientific expertise with practical conservation experience, ensuring an evidence-based approach to tackling the challenges facing coral reefs.

Leadership

  • Dr. David Obura
    Co-Chair
    Dr. Obura is a leading figure in coral reef science and conservation. He serves as the Chair of the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) and directs CORDIO East Africa, a Kenyan-based coral reef research and conservation organization. With over 30 years of experience, his work focuses on the vulnerability of coral reefs to climate change and their importance to coastal livelihoods. Dr. Obura's leadership emphasizes sustainability and equity to achieve global conservation goals.
  • Dr. Francoise Cabada-Blanco
    Co-Chair
    Dr. Cabada-Blanco is a marine ecologist and educator specializing in biodiversity monitoring and the integration of socio-ecological systems into conservation frameworks. As a faculty member at the University of Portsmouth, UK, she plays a pivotal role in developing innovative approaches to coral conservation while mentoring the next generation of marine scientists.
  • Dr. Beth Polidoro
    Red List Authority Coordinator
    Dr. Polidoro is an Associate Professor at Arizona State University and a specialist in marine species risk assessments. She leads the group’s work on evaluating extinction risks for coral species, ensuring that assessments adhere to IUCN’s rigorous Red List standards.

Key Contributors

  • Christi Linardich
    Senior Researcher
    With expertise in marine species assessments, Linardich has contributed to more than 7,000 IUCN Red List evaluations. Her work strengthens the scientific foundation of the Coral Specialist Group’s conservation strategies.
  • Emma Pettersson
    Programme Officer
    Pettersson oversees the coordination of Red List assessments, project planning, and communication outreach. Her role is essential in connecting research outcomes with conservation actions and stakeholder engagement.

Collaborative Expertise

The Coral Specialist Group also benefits from the input of a global network of over 53 registered members and more than 150 collaborating scientists and practitioners. This collective expertise enables the group to address the complex and evolving threats to coral reefs with a multidisciplinary perspective.