Dr. Berenshtein is a quantitative marine ecologist and a bio-physical oceanographer, studying complex interactions in the ocean. In his research, he focuses on the role of early life stages of fish in the marine ecosystem, as these stages often drive large-scale population dynamics, while at the same time representing one of the greatest knowledge gaps in marine ecology.

Dr. Berenshtein’s lab addresses critical questions regarding the health and ecology of the marine environment, using a multi-disciplinary approach. In our lab, we combine laboratory, in-situ, and advanced modeling techniques to study the effect of oil pollution on the marine environment. Specifically, we carry out behavioral experiments to examine how the behavior of larval fish is affected by oil pollution, and how such small-scale behaviors affect large-scale processes, such as population connectivity and ecosystem dynamics.

Dr. Berenshtein’s laboratory deals with fundamental questions concerning the health and functioning of the marine environment, with an emphasis on early life stages of fish. The laboratory investigates larval dispersal and connectivity, and examines the effects of marine pollution, fishing pressure and climate change on the marine environment. Our methods include the use of advanced modeling techniques, applied oceanography, ecological surveys, and behavioral experiments.