Dr. Jamie Marshall is a Research Fellow at Edinburgh Napier University and one of the leading figures in the field of surf therapy. He began his career by founding the Wave Project in Scotland, which has supported hundreds of young people facing mental health challenges through surfing. Building on this practice-based experience, Jamie went on to complete the world’s first PhD dedicated to surf therapy, pioneering evidence on how surfing can improve mental health.

He is Co-Founder of the Edinburgh Napier University Surf Lab and has played a central role in advancing community-based mental health programmes in low- and middle-income countries and post-conflict settings. Jamie also serves as a board member of the International Surf Therapy Organisation and leads on research and innovation for Lost Shore Surf Resort. His work bridges research, practice, and policy, bringing deep expertise on how surf therapy can be evaluated, adapted, and delivered at scale.