Notable Scientists from the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands is best known for its tourism, finance, and environmental beauty, but it has also produced respected scientists and researchers, particularly in the fields of marine biology, environmental science, medicine, and education. While the scientific community in Cayman is relatively small due to the islands’ population size (~70,000), several individuals have made significant contributions locally and internationally.
1. Dr. Guy Harvey
Marine Biologist, Artist, Conservationist
- Born: Germany, raised in Jamaica and Cayman Islands
- Field: Marine biology, especially sharks and ocean ecosystems
- Achievements:
- Known for his scientific artwork and documentaries about marine life
- Established the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, promoting marine conservation
- Longtime collaborator with the Cayman Islands Department of Environment
- Though born abroad, he has strong Caymanian ties and residency
- Legacy: Combines science and art to promote ocean conservation globally
2. Dr. Carrie Manfrino
Marine Geologist, Coral Reef Expert
- Affiliation: Founder of Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI), based in Little Cayman
- Field: Marine geology, reef conservation, climate change impact on reefs
- Work:
- Leads coral restoration and climate resilience research in the Cayman Islands
- Known for the “Reefs Go Live” program—connecting students to real-time coral research
- Works closely with Cayman’s education sector to improve STEM learning
- International Recognition: Featured in scientific journals and at global reef summits
3. Dr. James Gibb
Biologist, Environmental Scientist
- Works with the Department of Environment (DoE) in Cayman
- Focus: Invasive species control, particularly green iguanas and lionfish
- Develops data models for sustainable wildlife population management
- Active in public policy, biodiversity preservation, and habitat protection
4. Dr. Carina Blackwood (Emerging Caymanian Scientist)
- Field: Neuroscience and mental health (Cayman-born, UK-educated)
- Focus: Brain development, youth psychology, and wellness education
- Advocate for STEM education among young Caymanians and women in science
- Delivers public talks in Cayman Islands on mental health awareness
5. Dr. Shannon Gore (Marine Ecologist, based part-time in Cayman)
- Specializes in mangrove ecology and sea turtle conservation
- Collaborates with local NGOs and schools on coastal resilience education
- Has published work on climate impact on low-lying Caribbean islands
6. Medical Researchers
Several Caymanians in medicine and health sciences work globally while maintaining ties to Cayman:
| Name | Field | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Erynn Smith | Public Health & Epidemiology | Research on Caribbean health data and youth care |
| Dr. Kevin Bethel | Internal Medicine, Cayman-based | Public education and disease awareness |
| Dr. Bina Mani | Clinical Laboratory Science | Lab tech and infectious disease diagnostics |
7. Young Caymanians in Science
The government and NGOs are investing in STEM to nurture future Caymanian scientists. Programs include:
- CCMI Young Environmentalist Scholarship
- Cayman Islands Science Fair (CIIC)
- UCCI (University College of the Cayman Islands) STEM departments
- Marine biology internships with DoE and local dive operators
Summary Table
| Name | Field | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Guy Harvey | Marine Biology | Shark research, marine conservation art |
| Dr. Carrie Manfrino | Coral Reef Science | Founder of CCMI, coral restoration leader |
| Dr. James Gibb | Environmental Biology | Invasive species management, DoE scientist |
| Dr. Carina Blackwood | Neuroscience | Mental health & brain research |
| Dr. Shannon Gore | Marine Ecology | Mangrove studies, sea turtle work |
| Dr. Erynn Smith | Public Health | Caribbean youth health researcher |
