Research

I am a passionate researcher with a deep interest in coral reef ecology and physiology. In my work, I focus on studying the effects of microplastics on corals and investigating new ways to use 3D technologies in coral reef research. I am fascinated about research not only because of the scientific discoveries it yields, but also because of the opportunity it provides to work with fellow researchers who share my passion. If you are looking for someone to collaborate with on your research, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Topics

Uncovering coral growth in three-dimensional perspectives

Microplastic research

I specialize in studying the effects of microplastics on reef-building corals. My laboratory experiments have provided valuable insights into how microplastics directly impact the growth, survival, and physiology of corals. With this knowledge, I am now focused on investigating how these effects impact the larger coral reef ecosystem in the field.

3D scanning and analyses

Through the application of advanced 3D documentation techniques such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry and subsequent 3D analyses, I am able to deliver insights and observations that were previously impossible to document or interpret. These techniques allow me to record and study details, structures and features in unprecedented, high-resolution accuracy.

Coral growth and shape

Studying the changing form and function of corals under different environmental conditions is a core component of my investigations. I strive to develop a better understanding of how modular organisms, such as corals can respond with morphological plasticity to environmental stressors and to provide accurate, unbiased data that can be used study these effects.

3D design in reef restoration

Knowing how anthropogenic stressors have impacted coral reefs over the last decades, I am committed to helping restore the diversity and functionality of coral reefs. 3D designing has proven to be a unique and innovative method to combat the devastation of coral reefs. By mimicking nature's intricacy, I strive to develop 3D-printed designs that can help us restore biodiversity in a self-sustaining way.

Get some insights

My research has taken me on a journey across different fields and disciplines, allowing me to see new connections and explore novel methods. My work has been featured in different media outlets, giving me the opportunity to share my findings with a wider audience.

Take a look at some of my outlets and explore!

The impacts of microplastics on corals

Explore more how corals respond to microplastics and how it affects their physiology in the report from the Hessenschau above or read about it in this interview or in this blog.

3D scanning

Learn more about how we use 3D scanning in this online blog post here.

Corals store microplastic in their skeletons

Find out more about how corals remove microplastic from the water and store it in their skeletons in the series from ZDF above or in some news feeds here, here, or here.

Fractal dimension analyses

Learn more about how we used fractal dimesion analyses to study the shape of corals in the documentary from TerraX above in this blog post here.

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