Job Type
Research
Natural Resource Management
Activities
Dr. Hassan Moustahfid’s early research focused on developing ecosystem-based
approaches to fisheries, with an emphasis on integrating ecosystem
considerations into population dynamics and resource management processes. His
pioneering work in modeling ecosystem factors within population dynamics and
stock assessments has been instrumental in understanding the impacts of future
ocean climates on fisheries. This research supports efforts to set fishing
quotas and ensure the long-term sustainability of fish populations.
In 2009, recognizing data gaps that hindered model accuracy, Dr. Moustahfid
took the initiative to establish cost-effective ocean observing networks. He
played a key role in the development of the first U.S. Animal Telemetry Network
under NOAA’s U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) and the Fishing
Vessel-Based Observing Network, which uses fishers' gear and platforms to
collect cost-effective ocean data. These networks represent significant
advancements in marine science and oceanography, utilizing emerging technologies
to provide real-time, high-quality data that enhance fisheries management. A
primary goal of these initiatives is to develop short- to medium-term fisheries
forecasting models that leverage ocean data to capture dynamic fish behavior.
These “coupled ocean-fishery models” integrate oceanographic conditions, such
as temperature, currents, and salinity, with fish population dynamics to
predict fish distribution and abundance, ultimately guiding fisheries
management decisions based on anticipated shifts in fish location and
availability.
As a Federal Senior Marine Scientist with the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Department of Commerce, Dr. Moustahfid
has built a distinguished career characterized by leadership and innovation in
marine science. His work addresses critical marine environmental challenges,
including climate change, sustainable fisheries, aquaculture management.
In addition to his research, Dr. Moustahfid served as Senior Marine
Fisheries Resources officer at UN Food Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) and
currently he serves as Vice-President of the United Nations Ocean Decade Africa
and Adjacent Islands Task Force and the GeoBlue Planet Steering Committee,
where he makes significant contributions to global ocean sustainability
efforts. He also leads the development of cutting-edge decision support
systems, leveraging advanced technologies to address pressing ocean challenges.
Recognized for his expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) policies and best
practices development, Dr. Moustahfid chairs the NOAA NOS AI Working Group and
member of NOAA AI Executive Committee, playing a pivotal role in shaping the
future of AI applications in ocean science.
A former Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Moustahfid has further strengthened his
leadership capabilities through executive programs at prestigious institutions
such as Harvard Business School and the George Washington University School of
Business. His pioneering contributions to ocean observing technologies and the
integration of AI into marine sciences have earned him numerous accolades,
establishing him as a leading figure in advancing sustainable ocean stewardship
and developing innovative solutions to global challenges.
Skills
-Operational Oceanography,Ecology
-Integrated Ecosystem Assessment,
-Ecosystem Approaches to Natural Resources Management,
-Hydroacoustic and echointegration techniques
-Animal tracking and telemetry
-"Big" Data Management System
- Project Management
-Technical Advice & Consulting
