Oceanographer Ivan Haigh Takes Helm at UCF Coastal Research Center
Ivan Haigh, an accomplished oceanographer, has been appointed as the director of the National Center for Integrated Coastal Research (UCF Coastal) at the University of Central Florida (UCF). This transition marks a significant step in Haigh’s career as he aims to enhance interdisciplinary coastal science and address pressing environmental issues.
Haigh’s journey to this role began far from the ocean in Zambia, where he grew up. His family’s annual trips to Durban, South Africa, ignited his passion for the sea. Now, as he embarks on this new chapter, Haigh expresses enthusiasm for UCF’s commitment to community engagement and interdisciplinary research. He aims to leverage these strengths to create impactful solutions for coastal communities in Florida.
Establishing a Global Hub for Coastal Research
As the director of UCF Coastal, Haigh envisions transforming the center into a globally recognized hub for innovative coastal science. He intends to foster collaboration across diverse disciplines, including engineering, environmental science, social science, conservation, public policy, community planning, and emergency management.
“By fostering collaboration across these fields, the center will develop holistic strategies to address the complex and interconnected issues of sea-level rise, storm impacts, habitat loss, and coastal resilience,” Haigh stated. He believes that such an approach will enable the center to deliver real-world solutions to the challenges faced by Florida’s coastal communities.
Under Haigh’s leadership, UCF Coastal will also focus on cultivating an environment conducive to student involvement. He plans to introduce hands-on research opportunities and mentorships for students, empowering them to engage in coastal science actively. Additionally, Haigh will develop a course on coastal science and resilience, which he aims to teach during his second year at UCF.
A Diverse Career in Coastal Science
Haigh’s academic journey began at the University of Southampton in England, where he first discovered his passion for oceanography. A pivotal lecture on tidal dynamics and sea-level change solidified his commitment to this field. With over 25 years of experience, he has explored various coastlines worldwide, contributing to significant coastal projects.
His extensive work includes mapping flood risks in the Mekong River Delta, a region highly susceptible to climate change. In the United Kingdom, he played a crucial role in developing the Thames Estuary 2100 Plan, designed to protect London from flooding. Currently, he collaborates with government agencies in the U.K., the U.S., and the Netherlands to enhance the effectiveness of storm surge barriers amid rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
Despite his impressive achievements, Haigh expresses a deep appreciation for the connections he has built during his time at the University of Southampton. He acknowledges the difficulty of leaving but emphasizes the exciting opportunity to lead UCF Coastal as a catalyst for innovation in coastal research.
“Leaving was not an easy choice; Southampton holds deep professional and personal connections for me,” Haigh remarked. “But the chance to lead UCF Coastal was too exciting to pass up.”
As Haigh begins this new chapter, he looks forward to working alongside talented colleagues and students, united in their mission to advance coastal science and build resilient communities. He believes that their collective efforts can create a lasting impact that extends far beyond the shores of Florida.
