our Collaborations
Biology /Chemistry
MolStressH2O Cluster
This research cluster aims to deconstruct the cause-and effect network between aquatic environmental change (climate change, human-induced pollution) and organismal stress response at the molecular level, and to utilize this information to generate tools and strategies for mitigating the ecosystem effects of global change. We take a systems approach, collaboratively bridging a variety of disciplines (ecology & evolution, toxicology, genomics, proteomics, analytical and computational chemistry, and computational biology) to achieve these goals.
Biology
Invasive species and integrated Pest Management
This project focuses on the application and development of aquatic chemical signals in pest management. Feeding cues and deterrents can be used to trap invasive species such as shore crabs (Carcinus maenas). Bryce Richardson and Jonathan Barnett and Dr. Nichola Fletcher are currently working on this project. Collaborators are Dr. John Terschak (MSS, Bridlington) and Prof. Sylvia Yamada (Oregon State University). The project is funded by Oregon State University and Pacific Fisheries Sciences.
Environmental Sciences
The past and future of the humber
This project aims to investigate ecological responses to climate change using experimental biology. Using the harbour ragworm (Hediste diversicolor) as a model organism we investigate behavioural and physiological changes caused by increasing ocean temperatures and decreasing pH. We are interested in how environmental stress might drive extinctions and the slow recovery of diversity. We hope to learn what the future landscape of the Humber might look like, as well as use our experiments to better understand crises of the past.
Biology
Plastic in the environment
This project started with the PhD project of Ashwaq Alnenuwi (2018) on the effects of plasticisers (e.g. DEHP) on ragworms (Nereididae).
Biology
Functional Traits stability under climate change conditions
This NERC funded project focuses on the marine polycheate Nereis diversicolor. This work investigates the impacts of predicted climate change conditions on the functional traits of this bioturbating species. Functional traits are a measurable element of an organism’s phenotype and allows us to make predictions of how an environmental change will impact on both effect and response traits of a particular species. We will be monitoring key changes in reproductive behaviour, feeding strategy, predator avoidance and escape mechanisms, as well as impacts on size, weight and larval number whilst under predicted environmental stresses. This research is part of a collaborative project with Southampton University that will assess how short- and long-term environmental forcing and biological interactions will impact on functional trait expressions of marine invertebrates. This data will contribute to the development of a trait-based model to predict how environmental changes will impact on marine benthic ecosystem functioning.
Biology
Detection and impact of cyanoToxins in drinking water in Ghana
GSRF project with Gloria. More information coming soon.
Chemistry
Using Electrochemistry to create Hydrogen
Collaboration with Helmuth Schäfer (Osnabrück). More information coming soon.