Cordes Lab

Temple University

Deep-sea ecosystems can be difficult to discover and even harder to protect. Erik Cordes studies deep-ocean ecology, including coral reefs, natural hydrocarbon seeps, and hydrothermal vents. His group uses seafloor mapping, predictive models, and submersible surveys to locate and examine coral communities, and develops conservation and restoration approaches for damaged habitats. The work connects ocean exploration with ecological stewardship. It is a research match for interests in marine biodiversity, deep-sea communities, and understanding environmental effects in ecosystems beyond the reach of sunlight.