I am a Teaching Fellow at the University of Edinburgh, teaching a range of courses on the MSc in Biodiversity, Wildlife and Ecosystem Health. Image I am an ecotoxicologist with a specific interest in the effects of anthropogenic stressors on aquatic ecosystems, in particular quantifying the effects of microplastic contamination on organisms. I strongly believe that scientists must collaborate and merge environmental outreach and education with their research in order to make positive changes regarding environmental issues. Experience to date demonstrates a commitment to scientific research, alongside teaching and learning in higher education. Prior to my position at the University of Edinburgh, I taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses at the University of Stirling. My research focuses on understanding the extent and impacts of anthropogenic contamination on freshwater biota, in particular documenting the uptake and ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics. My research and laboratory skills lie in ecotoxicology, spectral analysis of synthetic particles, isolating microplastics from complex organic matrices and animal husbandry. I completed my PhD at Stirling University investigating the occurrence and impacts of microplastic contamination on threatened lamprey populations in Scotland. I completed my undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Zoology and Ecotoxicology at Exeter University. My masters by research investigated the impacts of microplastic contamination on sea urchin larvae, working in collaboration with laboratories in Naples and on international funding grants. During my masters, I also took part in a collaborative sailing expedition investigating and unveiling invisible pollution in the Arctic Ocean. This involved a diverse group of passionate scientists, environmentalists, photographers, artists and videographers. As one of the scientists on board, we undertook microplastic research around the island of Spitsbergen, South West Svalbard. Brought together through a shared love of the ocean and protecting the natural world, we utilised our collective skills to raise awareness of the hidden threats our oceans are facing through exhibitions, public events, a documentary and a children’s book. In my free time, I love mountain biking, hiking and running in the beautiful Scottish hills! This article was published on 2024-08-05
