About
Welcome to my website! Here I present my scientific work and profile as a researcher in the field of marine biology. My research focuses on the impacts on the use of 3D technologies to study coral growth and how microplastics impact reef-building corals. As an advocate for open science, communication, and teamwork, I welcome collaborative work and outreach activities. Feel free to browse through my website and learn more about my work.
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Education
2008 - 2011
Bachelor of Science in Biology
I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology from Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany. During my studies, I focused on animal ecology and conservation. In my final thesis, I investigated the adaptations of cultured corals to different light regimes.
2011 - 2013
Master of Science in Biology
I earned my Master's degree from Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany and James-Cook-University Townsville, Australia. In my final thesis I investigated the bioactivity of the sponge Haliclona cnidata - a nematocyst-bearing sponge.
2013 - 2018
Doctoral studies in Biology
After my time in Australia, I went back to Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany. I conducted my doctoral studies in the Animal Ecology & Systematics Lab of Prof. Dr. Thomas Wilke and as part of the CEMARIN (Centre for Excellence in Marine Sciences). My doctoral research investigated the use of 3D analyses as novel method for quantifying anthropogenic impacts on corals. Through the CEMARIN I was fortunate to participate in field activities and collaborations in the Carribean in Colombia.
Postdoctoral research
2018 - 2020
Postdoctoral Researcher
I continued my research in a postdoctoral position at Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany, where I investigated the impacts of microplastic on reef-building corals in laboratory settings. I strongly engaged in teaching and mentoring, which I genuinely enjoy.
2022 - 2023
Postdoctoral Researcher
After my parental leave, I joined the Marine Holobiomics Lab of Prof. Dr. Maren Ziegler at Justus Liebig University as part of the Loewe Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, Frankfurt, Germany. There I investigated the evolutionary origin of cnidocytes in the stinging black sponge Haliclona cnidata, which I previously investigated during my Master's thesis.
2023 - today
Postdoctoral Researcher
I recently joined the Geometric Ecology Lab of Prof. Dr. Joshua Madin at the Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, USA. As part of the Reefense Project, I develop and study novel structures that add three-dimensional complexity to reef-restoration applications and provide settlement substrate for coral larvae. Surrounded by coral reef, I further investigate the impacts of microplastics on corals in natural systems.
Mentoring and outreach
I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. Regularly organizing and participating in outreach events has allowed me to communicate our findings to a wider audience. As a mentor to students, I am driven to guide the next generation of researchers towards the innovative and collaborative work that will benefit us all. Overall, teamwork is the cornerstone of my research philosophy which enables us to achieve great things and make meaningful change.