Camila Toledo Jaime, postgraduate researcher, CDT SuMMeR: Cohort 3

I hold a bachelors degree in Earth Sciences with a specialization in Oceanography and a masters degree in Ecosystem Management, both from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. My graduate research focused on the impacts of climate change on disturbance events, such as wildfires. I further refined my skills during a research internship at the University of Jaume I in Spain, focusing on climate change-related events, including adaptation strategies and risk assessment.

My primary research interests center on the physical and biological processes of the ocean, exploring their variability across various spatio-temporal scales and their response to climate change. I am particularly interested in how these changes affect marine ecosystems, aquaculture, and fisheries, and interact with other human-induced stressors. I am also focused on integrating social perspectives to more effectively address marine and climate-related challenges. This approach includes assessing socio-ecological systems, where people and nature are inextricably linked, to improve marine conservation and management practices, ultimately aiming for enhanced sustainability.

In the summer of 2023, the UK experienced record-breaking sea surface temperatures, highlighting the increasing frequency and severity of marine heatwaves – a trend consistent with global observations that show a significant rise in such events over the last century. Marine heatwaves can cause devastating effects, including the mass mortality of marine species, loss of biodiversity, and substantial economic impacts on fisheries and tourism. As the frequency of these events is projected to increase with ongoing climate change, understanding their socio-economic and ecological implications for the UK remains a crucial policy challenge.

My PhD project aims to comprehensively evaluate the socio-economic and ecosystem impacts of marine heatwaves in the UK. The research will analyze historical data and employ state-of-the-art regional ocean climate projections to assess potential changes in the frequency, intensity, and duration of these heatwaves throughout the 21st century.

A key focus of the study is to explore the heightened risk of harmful algal blooms, which pose significant threats to aquaculture, water quality, and human health. The project will also examine the broader socio-economic repercussions, such as impacts on the viability of tourism and aquaculture sites. This analysis will be supported by a thorough review of existing literature and targeted modeling studies, covering both the direct and indirect effects of marine heatwaves.

By delving into these areas, the project aims to provide crucial insights that can inform policy decisions and management strategies, enhancing the resilience of marine ecosystems and coastal communities against the backdrop of climate change.

I applied for the CDT SuMMeR program due to its unique alignment with my academic interests and passion for the ocean. The program’s transdisciplinary approach and emphasis on practical, actionable solutions for a range of marine challenges deeply resonated with my desire to expand my knowledge of marine systems and their management, and to translate this knowledge into real-world impact. The opportunity to collaborate with a diverse network of experts and stakeholders across multiple sectors offers invaluable learning and future career opportunities, making SuMMeR the ideal setting to advance my research and professional goals.