Dr. Paul Dinnel is a specialist in the areas of marine ecology and toxicology with a lifelong dedication to the study and restoration of Puget Sound’s marine ecosystems, particularly its vital shellfish resources. With 18 years as a Research Scientist at the University of Washington and 15 years at Western Washington University, Dr. Dinnel has led or co-led numerous projects funded by agencies such as the U.S. EPA, NOAA, U.S. Navy, and others, many focused on water and sediment quality issues tied to pollution, dredging, and effluent impacts. Beyond his academic and research accomplishments, Dr. Dinnel has been a driving force in regional restoration efforts, including spearheading Olympia oyster recovery beginning in 2002, championing European green crab trapping since 2017, and advancing Pinto abalone restoration throughout Puget Sound. A founding member of the Skagit MRC appointed in 1999, he continues to serve in leadership roles across multiple organizations, including the Northwest Straits Commission and the Padilla Bay Foundation, where he has been a board member for three decades. Dr. Dinnel has authored or co-authored over 100 scientific technical reports and publications, written protocols for sea urchin bioassays, embryo and larval herring bioassays, and co-authored a trawl protocol for Puget Sound. 

Dr. Paul Dinnel’s dedication, scientific excellence, and collaborative spirit have left a profound legacy on the health and resilience of Puget Sound. His lifelong work continues to inspire current and future generations of marine scientists, students, and community stewards.