I am a PhD Student at the Marine Biological Association and The University of Plymouth. My research involves the development of techniques to ‘futureproof’ kelp restoration and look into the impact this may have on UK marine biodiversity. My previous research as a masters student and Research Technician at the MBA focused on the thermal tolerance of different Marine habitat forming species. Using a closed recirculating mesocosm system I was able to expose kelp, seagrass and bivalve species to environmentally relevant ‘marine heatwaves’ and measure the responses of those with contrasting thermal affinities. I hope to bring aspects of my previous work into my PhD project to investigate the optimisation of kelp restoration in the threat of climate change.
Outside of my research, I took part in a Marine Conservation Internship in Fiji, obtaining my PADI Advanced Open Water certification, whilst conducting field surveys of damaged/endangered reefs. Doing this allowed me not only to explore my love of the ocean but also improve my skills as a diver, something which I would love to continue throughout my studies.
