As an Ecology and Biodiversity PhD candidate, I dig into the muddy, largely understudied layers of our coastal sediments to uncover how tiny marine invertebrates in the sediment are coping with decades of human impact. By repeating historical surveys across southern Australia, my research reveals long-term ecological changes in benthic invertebrate communities, influenced by land-use change, aquaculture, and urbanisation. From seagrass meadows to salmon farms, I’m mapping how these changes ripple through coastal marine life. By understanding which species are most sensitive, we can better protect the ecosystems they support.
Research keyword: Benthic invertebrates, coastal conservation
About the BEAKER STREET ROVING SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Each August, hundreds of Roving Scientists descend upon Hobart, filling up pubs and chatting to strangers as part of Beaker Street Festival. Discover a new world down the lens of microscope, and joining the least-boring bar conversations you’ve ever heard and these free (the chats – not the drinks) events.
For Scientists, Beaker Street’s Roving Scientist Program offers an excellent outreach, professional development, and networking opportunity. It’s the nerdiest and funnest way to share your research with the public, expand your network, and be inspired by leaders in all sectors of science and science communication.
