María Nohales Coscollá

Affiliation:

University of Algarve, Portugal
30 Aug 2022 to 29 Sep 2022

Research subject:

Phytoplankton distribution

Supervisor:

Prof. Ana Maria Branco Barbosa

Short cv:

I am a master student of Marine Biology at the University of Algarve (Faro, Portugal) with a background in Marine Sciences (Alicante, Spain). Is in this degree where I had my first approach to physical, chemical, and biological oceanography.

I am interested in learning how to relate the physico-chemical parameters of the ocean obtained via remote sensing, with the phytoplankton community that supports the marine organisms and influence their dynamics. This holistic perspective is crucial to better understand the functioning and connections between the ocean and its inhabitants. It also seems to be more important than ever to have this knowledge now, given the pervasive climate change that is altering all characteristics of the ocean and, as a result, altering animal behavior.

This inclination has led me to approach Dra. Ana Maria Branco Barbosa as a supervisor of my master thesis in Biological Oceanography. Even though the topic of my project is still not clearly defined, it will focus on the study and distribution of phytoplankton in the coastal lagoon of Ria Formosa (Algarve).

Therefore, I consider that this ocean training on board the RV Polarstern represents for me a unique opportunity where I can continue to grow and learn within this fascinating field. Furthermore, I consider this training as an investment for my knowledge and to be able to contribute and help the scientific community and the planet Earth in the future.