My background is in biological sciences – I have recently graduated with an MSc in Ecology and Conservation from the University of Aberdeen, where I focused my research project on modelling the reintroduction of moor frogs (Rana arvalis) to Scotland, where I used dynamic individual movement-based modelling techniques. I also have an MSci in Forensic Sciences from the University of the West of England.
The blue mussel Mytilus edulis as an indicator species for modelling marine connectivity in Scotland
PhD aims:
- Address the resilience of the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) at large spatial scales.
- Develop models which are capable of representing species population dynamics within locales and dispersal between locales.
- Models will capture the mechanisms of Connectivity between networks made up of rivers and coastal systems, provided by natural mechanisms such as larval migration and human intervention.
PhD objectives:
- Choose appropriate modelling frameworks for modelling the blue mussel population at national scale.
- Construct and parameterise models to describe and predict blue mussel population connectivity.
- Identify features of the national-scale population and connectivity patterns of highest conservation interest in terms of linking populations and regulating gene flow
- Identify the likely impacts of global change.
- Assess how blue mussel connectivity is affected by projected global climate change in temperature variable habitats in Scotland as well as changing salinity and acidity levels.
- Investigate effects of predation rate, disease, and competition on blue mussel connectivity.
- Assess the use of the blue mussel as an indicator species for human intervention effects on the marine ecosystem
- Application of connectivity model framework on other species of interest.
Contact details:
Email: [email protected]