MRCI's Mission Statement:
To develop and implement effective conservation and management practices for marine reptile species through science-based data collection, field research, community engagement, education, conservation, consulting, and advocacy. 

          Marine Reptile Conservation International or MRCI (pronounced "mercy") is 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization founded in 2025 by Matthew Louis Rutledge, a herpetologist and marine biologist from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the United States, currently studying for a PhD of Environmental Science at the University of the Philippines Diliman.​

          Matt has been fascinated with the natural world and with reptiles in particular since before he can remember, frequently joking that the whole "growing out of dinosaurs thing" just never quite happened for him. A childhood fascination with reptiles grew into an all-encompassing passion for wildlife, inspired by figures like Steve Irwin, David Attenborough, Jeff Corwin, and historical pioneers like Charles Darwin. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies with a focus in Conservation Ecology and a Masters degree in Tropical Biology and Conservation. Since beginning his career in the natural sciences, Matt has worked in a wide variety of environments and with a wide variety of organisms. His primary specialties are marine ecosystems and (as ever) reptiles. 
          In 2025, Matt began PhD study at the University of the Philippines Diliman and gathered a like-minded team of conservationists to form the backbone of MRCI with the goal of forwarding research and conservation projects focused on marine reptiles. MRCI's inaugural project is an effort to document the movement, range, and habitat use of Critically Endangered Western Pacific Leatherback Sea Turtles in the Philippines to aid in their conservation and protection from anthropogenic threats. Join us and your support can help us learn critical lessons that will aid in the defense of these vanishing giants!