Admitted Semester 1, 2025
Tyson Stanley Ghera has been awarded the prestigious U.S.-Pacific Resilience and Adaptation Fellowship Program (US-PRAFP) Scholarship, a fully funded three-year award to pursue his PhD in Marine Science at the University of the South Pacific.
Tyson’s current research investigates the impacts of climate change and fishing practices on the spawning aggregations of coral trout (Plectropomus leopardus) and the livelihood dependence of local communities. His research addresses critical questions related to the effects of climate change on spawning patterns, the consequences of fishing practices on coral trout populations, and the socio-economic implications for the community.
Employing a mixed-methods approach, Tyson combines quantitative analysis of coral trout populations with qualitative interviews of local fishers, allowing him to gain a comprehensive understanding of these complex dynamics. His work aims to inform marine resource policy and governance, grounded in strong commitments to collaboration, inclusion, sustainability, and innovation. Through his research, Tyson seeks to contribute significantly to the sustainable management of marine resources and the well-being of local communities.
Tyson earned a Master of Philosophy in Biology, a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Environmental Science, and a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Environmental Science—all from Pacific Adventist University in Papua New Guinea. He also completed a Mini MBA from the Australian Institute of Management and a Master of Business Administration (Leadership) from James Cook University in Australia.
Tyson has seven years of work experience with the Solomon Islands Government. He has served as Senior Science Teacher at the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development, Senior Constituency Development Officer at the Ministry of Rural Development, and most recently, Deputy Policy Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, where he oversaw policy evaluation, implementation and monitoring for the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Email: s11248841@student.usp.ac.fj
