I am originally from Adelaide, Australia which is where I received my Phd, but I am currently a MSCA Postdoctoral researcher at Centro de Estudios Avanzados de Blanes in Spain. My expertise lie in environmental DNA methods, from recovering trace DNA and working with ancient samples and developing novel methods to unlock the secrets of environmental DNA. I have a special interest in reconstructing historical ecosystem changes that have occurred over the last millennia. Historical perspectives can uncover a wealth of information on past ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity which can be used to inform restoration goals, establish baselines and assist in predicting future responses of ecosystems to change.
I mostly enjoy working with seagrass habitats and my current research focuses on reconstructing change in seagrass beds in the Mediterranean Basin. These underwater gardens have captivated me for years now and I have spent many a weekend snorkelling off Kangaroo Island, South Australia immersed in these wonderful underwater plants.
Into the ocean 