Two Marine Biological Association (MBA) Members were awarded prestigious bursaries to attend the European Coral Reef Symposium (ECRS).
PhD student Judith Camps-Castella who studies Marine Biodiversity at the University of Barcelona and Marine Science Masters student Ana Ferreira Coelho from the University of Plymouth had the opportunity to network and enhance their marine skillsets at the Symposium in Napoli, Italy,
ECRS brought together a diverse group of participants, including scientists, students and NGOs, and gave Judith and Ana the opportunity to meet researchers from California, Italy, Spain, and other countries across Europe.
The symposium enriched Judith’s research on deeper (mesophotic) coral ecosystems and reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing marine conservation, especially in the study of the coral reefs.
She said: “I am deeply grateful to the Marine Biological Association for granting me this incredible opportunity to attend the European Coral Reef Symposium! Participating in the symposium with a poster about my study has been incredibly beneficial for my CV and academic career.
It has been an intense week that also allowed me to meet researchers I had been collaborating with but had not met in person. Also, it has allowed me to learn new techniques for studying both mesophotic ecosystems and the microbiome of gorgonians, which are key aspects of my PhD thesis. The MBA support accelerates my journey in ocean conservation and fuels my thirst for knowledge, particularly in the field of coral research.”
The ECRS was Ana’s first time attending a conference.
She said: “I was very nervous to talk to people more knowledgeable than me. However, from the moment I entered the conference venue I found everyone from the staff to researchers, to be both friendly and approachable. The agenda was jammed pack with a variety of interesting talks about coral conservation/restoration techniques, behaviour and molecular responses of reef associated fishes to different stressors, microplastics, 3D reef surveying and monitoring techniques, as well as a few talks about soft coral reefs (my current focus) but to name a few.”
Ana had the opportunity to speak to presenters and discuss her research and also took part in a poster presentation, which allowed her to connect with researchers for future collaboration.
She said: “Attending the ECRS 2024 was an amazing experience where I not only got to share my work with other coral researchers, but I also made invaluable connections which may potentially open the door for future research opportunities or collaboration. None of this would have been possible if not for the support of the MBA and its bursary programme and I strongly encourage this as an avenue for other early researchers to consider when looking to further their careers.”
How to apply for an MBA Student Bursary
Bursaries are available for Student, Newly qualified and Postgraduate MBA Members.
The MBA Student Bursary Program aims to provide financial support to individuals pursuing higher education or research opportunities in marine biology. With a strong belief in the importance of empowering the next generation of marine scientists and educators, the MBA seeks to support aspiring marine biologists to achieve their academic and professional goals.
For more information about MBA bursaries, please visit our Student Bursary Application webpage or contact the Membership team at membership@mba.ac.uk.
Find out more and become an MBA Member today.
