FAU Researcher to Make Big 'Splash' in NatGeo's SharkFest
“Florida’s Bite Capital” episode dives deep into the world of shark behavior and the science behind shark bites at New Smyrna Beach – long known as the shark bite capital of the world.
Shark fanatics, science buffs and ocean advocates won’t want to miss a thrilling new episode of NatGeo’s “Florida’s Bite Capital,” with Florida Atlantic University professor Stephen Kajiura, Ph.D., on Wednesday, July 9 at 9 p.m. on National Geographic.
Kajiura, a renowned marine biologist, shark expert and professor of biological sciences in FAU’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, offers his expertise in the fifth episode of “Investigation Shark Attack,” a six-part series that begins on Saturday, July 5, and explores shark behavior from this species’ own unique perspective.
Part of the network’s highly anticipated SharkFest 2025, “Investigation Shark Attack,” is an intense forensic investigation by a panel of scientists who analyze key theories and ultimately dissect each encounter to determine what leads sharks to strike.
“Florida’s Bite Capital” episode dives deep into the world of shark behavior and the science behind shark bites at New Smyrna Beach – long known as the shark bite capital of the world.
Kajiura, whose research focuses on the sensory biology and behavior of sharks, offers a rare, science-first look into how and why these apex predators interact with humans in shallow waters. With an innovative blend of aerial surveys, fieldwork and high-tech tracking, his insights help crack the code behind these encounters.
For more information, visit www.natgeotv.com/ca/shark-fest.
//
-FAU-
Latest Research
- Study: 'Man's Best Friend' Slows Cellular Aging in Female VeteransPioneering research from FAU and collaborators shows training service dogs slows biological aging in female veterans - especially those with combat experience - marking a breakthrough in mind-body health.
- Chatbots the New 'Doc?' Exploring AI in Health Behavior CoachingChanging habits is tough. AI tools like ChatGPT now simulate motivational interviewing (MI), showing promise - but can they match MI's core and spark lasting change? FAU researchers explore the potential.
- Study First to Show if Nesting Heat Affects Sea Turtle Hatchling 'IQ'FAU researchers are the first to train loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings in a maze using visual cues to test their learning and ability, and to determine if high nest temperatures impair their cognition.
- FAU Lands EPA Grant to Use Genetics in Florida Bay Sponge RestorationFunded by the U.S. EPA, the project marks the first genetic assessment of sponge recovery in the region, with broad implications for ecosystem health and economically important species like the spiny lobster.
- Single Drug Shows Promise to Treat PTSD, Pain, and Alcohol MisuseA study by the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine showed that the drug PPL-138 reduced anxiety, pain, and alcohol misuse in rats with PTSD-like symptoms by targeting specific opioid receptors in the brain.
- FAU Engineers Create Smarter AI to Redefine Control in Complex SystemsA new AI framework developed by FAU engineers improves how complex systems with unequal decision-makers like smart grids, traffic networks, and autonomous vehicles are managed.