Biography

I am a Research Fellow at the University of Plymouth, focusing on the development and application of molecular tools to monitor marine biodiversity, with a particular emphasis on Environmental DNA (eDNA) and ancient DNA approaches. I have worked on quality control of eDNA workflows, developed passive and robotic sampling methods, and explored novel applications such as CRISPR-based bio surveillance and Nanopore sequencing.

I have extensive experience in Antarctic research, including projects within the New Zealand Antarctic Science Platform to investigate contemporary biodiversity patterns in the Ross Sea. I have also lead research funded by the Royal Society of New Zealand on recovering historical eDNA from museum sponge specimens to reconstruct past Antarctic marine ecosystems. I collaborate closely with BAS scientists on mesocosm experiments, eDNA metabarcoding, and PhD supervision.

Through my work and my BAS Honorary Researcher position, I aim to advance long-term biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem assessment in the Southern Ocean, while also strengthening international collaborations and expanding BAS’ research reach in the Ross Sea.

Research interests

Collaborations