Dr. Jessica Reichert
Experimental Marine Biologist
As a marine biologist, I study the impacts of environmental stressors, in particular microplastic, on reef-building corals. Through my research, I aim to increase awareness about the effects of microplastics on marine life. I am a strong believer in open science and teamwork, and welcome collaborative work and outreach programs. Currently, I am a postdoctoral researcher in the Geometric Ecology Lab at the Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology.
Research Interests
I'm interested in how anthropogenic stressors, such as microplastic, affect coral frameworks and their future in marine ecosystems. My research explores how these impacts affect the growth and morphology of reef-building corals, with a focus on 3D morphometric analyses. I am also interested in how we can mimic the structural complexity of coral reefs in reef restoration efforts and to better support reefs facing these stressors.
Publications
Reichert, J.; Schellenberg, J.; Schubert, P. & Wilke, T. (2018): Responses of reef-building corals to microplastic exposure. Environmental Pollution, 237:955–960.
Reichert, J.; Arnold, A. L.; Hammer, N.; Miller, I. B.; Rades, M.; Schubert, P.; Ziegler, M.; Wilke, T. (2021). Reef‐building corals act as long‐term sink for microplastic. Global Change Biology, September, 1–13.
Reichert, J.; Tirpitz, V.; Oponczewski, M.; Lin, C.; Franke, N.; Ziegler, M.; Wilke, T. (2023) Feeding responses of reef-building corals provide species- and concentration-dependent risk assessment of microplastic. Science of The Total Environment 913.
On a mission
As both a scientist and a mother, I know the challenges faced by women who want to succeed in science while also raising a family. I am on that path myself and I want to share my experiences to inspire and encourage young females to pursue their scientific passions without fear or hesitation. It is possible to have a balanced life, and I want to prove it. I hope to be a source of inspiration for the next generation of women in science.