
Michael Porter is a multidisciplinary scientist and engineer with more than two decades of research and development experience spanning academia and industry. His work has brought together expertise across water systems, marine sciences, climate adaptation, materials science, computational modeling, and renewable energy, providing the interdisciplinary foundation behind OceanWell’s technology.
Before joining OceanWell, Michael served as Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Clemson University and conducted research at both the University of California San Diego and the University of Hawaii. Throughout his career, he has focused on advancing technologies inspired by natural systems, with research ranging from underwater robotics and bioinspired materials to offshore energy and water infrastructure.
As Chief Technology Officer, Michael has led the transformation of OceanWell from an academic concept into a validated technology platform. He oversees the scientific and engineering development of the company’s subsea desalination systems, applying a multidisciplinary approach to create resilient freshwater infrastructure that works in harmony with the ocean while supporting long-term environmental health.