Shark Research Institute (SRI), a multi-disciplinary non-profit 501(c)(3) scientific research organization, was created to sponsor and conduct research on sharks and promote the conservation of sharks. Founded in 1991 at Princeton, New Jersey, USA, SRI has field offices in Canada, the Galapagos Islands, Honduras, Mexico, South Africa, Taiwan and the Seychelles. A new data collecting site has been established in Australia.

SRI works with the scientific community, individuals and organizations concerned about the health of our marine ecosystem, and marine resource users: subsistence fishermen, sport divers, and the dive tourism industry. SRI works to correct misperceptions about sharks and stop the slaughter of 100 million sharks annually. A primary goal is creating value for sharks as sustainable natural resources for the dive tourism industry, particularly in developing countries. By so doing, a steady revenue stream is also generated for local fishers that might otherwise slaughter the sharks for immediate gain. Current programs involve visual and satellite tracking, behavioral and DNA studies of sharks, environmental advocacy, publications and public education.

To promote public awareness of sharks and their vital role in the marine ecosystem, to the establishment of marine sanctuaries for sharks; to maintain a global database of shark attacks, establish a multi-disciplinary network of investigators, and develop resources to aid shark attack victims; to conduct and sponsor behavioral studies of sharks and support research into their biology, distribution and global movements; to foster the interest of people of all ages, races and backgrounds in scientific research through lectures, publications, conferences, financial grants and all other relevant means; to maintain library, map and other advisory facilities which will assist those interested and engaged in scientific research; to encourage industry, organizations, foundations and individuals to promote the general and specific purposes for which this Corporation is organized; to sponsor education and educational facilities consonant with the aforesaid purposes of the Institute and those specific in its charter.

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