Andrej A. Gajić 🇦🇱
Andrej A. Gajić is a Ph.D. researcher in veterinary medicine specializing in fish pathology, with M.Sc. degrees in Biology and Conservation and a B.Eng. in Ecology. His research focuses on post-capture survival, reproduction, and the conservation of sharks, skates, and rays, with particular emphasis on the impacts of fisheries.
Raised in a war-torn country far from the sea, Andrej has become an internationally awarded scientist, published author, distinguished lecturer, advanced diver, skydiver, and documentary filmmaker. He has authored over 80 scientific papers and three books and served as Principal Investigator for 22 regional scientific projects over the past ten years. Notably, Andrej has published multiple single-author articles in Q1 and leading Q2 journals (Wiley, Springer) covering complex, multidisciplinary studies from concept to publication.
Known for his work as head scientist with National Geographic, Discovery Channel and Explorers Club, he has delivered invited talks, including a TED talk, at conferences across the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa. He is currently General Director of Sharklab ADRIA: Center for Marine and Freshwater Biology in Vlorë, Albania.
His work has been featured in over 5,000 media appearances across more than 100 countries, including leading outlets such as National Geographic, Discovery, BBC, CNN Forbes, The Independent, Yahoo, and others.
In recognition of his scientific achievements and contributions to conservation, Andrej was appointed Ambassador for the Mediterranean by UNEP MAP – Barcelona Convention in 2022. His honors include a Special Governmental Recognition for extraordinary scientific achievements (2021), the National Geographic EC Leadership Award (2020), and the Man of the Year title (2019), among several others.
Publishing in leading international journals, Andrej has authored more than 80 articles and three books. Over the past decade, he has also served as Principal Investigator on 22 regional projects. His lectures and keynote addresses have taken him throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa. With over 5,000 media appearances spanning more than 100 countries, his work has gained worldwide recognition and has been showcased by majority of the world’s leading media outlets. Andrej is a founder of Sharklab ADRIA research center and rehabilitation clinic in Vlore, Albania and work throughout the Mediterranean, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and beyond.