Dr Thane Militz is a Project Scientist with the Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research (ACPIR). His research focuses on tropical aquaculture and small-scale fisheries with particular emphasis on pearl oysters and other molluscs, marine invertebrates and marine ornamental species. Thane has over 10 years of experience delivering research projects through partnerships with many Pacific Island Countries and Territories. His work involves engaging with policymakers and governments in the design, implementation and evaluation of strategies for developing aquaculture sectors in the Indo-Pacific region.