Jonathan Vallarta, PhD, CEO & Co‑Founder

Jonathan’s path into underwater acoustics began with a simple question: How do marine animals experience the world when sound is their lifeline? That curiosity led him into physics, mathematics, biology, electronics, and eventually into the specialized field of underwater acoustics. Over the years, he developed a reputation for blending scientific precision with a deep sense of responsibility toward marine life.

His work has taken him from research vessels to offshore industrial sites, from quiet coastal bays to the heart of international regulatory discussions. One of the defining moments in his career came in 2017, when Jonathan participated in the United Nations Informal Consultative Process on Oceans and the Law of the Sea (UNICPOLOS). There, he contributed his expertise on underwater noise and marine fauna protection to a global dialogue on ocean governance. His participation reinforced his belief that protecting the ocean requires not only science, but also diplomacy, collaboration, and a willingness to advocate for the voiceless species that depend on sound for survival.

Along the way, Jonathan built a legacy as a trusted expert in underwater noise reduction and marine fauna protection. He has contributed to projects shaped by the world’s leading standards and emerging global policies—helping industries operate more responsibly while ensuring marine ecosystems remain protected.

But Jonathan’s impact isn’t defined only by technical expertise. It’s shaped by the way he approaches every challenge: with humility, curiosity, and a belief that science should serve both people and the planet. He has mentored young researchers, collaborated with First Nations, and worked alongside regulators and industry leaders to create solutions that are practical, ethical, and grounded in the latest acoustic science.

As CEO and Co‑Founder of PAMOSsince 2014, Jonathan leads with the same values that guided him from the beginning. He believes that protecting the ocean starts with listening—literally and figuratively. Under his leadership, PAMOS has become a place where innovation meets stewardship, where data becomes insight, and where environmental responsibility is not an obligation but a shared purpose.

Today, Jonathan continues to push the field forward through environmental research, the development of best practices in underwater passive acoustics, and a commitment to helping organizations reduce their acoustic footprint. His work reflects a simple truth he learned long ago: when we listen carefully, the ocean tells us how to protect it.