Francisco Schinder Coirini, postgraduate researcher, CDT SuMMeR: Cohort 3

During my Marine Biology undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth, I gained experience working with a variety of marine organisms and across different research fields. A placement at the Institute of Marine Research in Vigo, Spain, sparked my interest in mussel aquaculture and inspired the focus of my bachelors thesis. In my thesis, I explored the ecology of invertebrate communities that inhabit mussel farm ropes and natural mussel reefs.

While I have experience in rocky shore ecology, tropical marine conservation, and juvenile fish habitat use, my primary interest lies in mussel aquaculture. During my placement and final undergraduate year, I participated in mussel physiology labs, conducted sampling at mussel farms, and engaged in fieldwork on mussel beds in exposed rocky shore environments. Currently, my PhD project focuses on assessing the remediation capacity of blue mussels and restoration of these bivalves. To achieve this, I will conduct physiological experiments, perform genetic analyses, develop population connectivity models, and apply natural capital valuation methods, so I am interested in learning more about these techniques and disciplines.

Blue mussels are among the most efficient filter feeders in coastal ecosystems, capable of filtering large volumes of water and removing particles from the water column. In theory, mussels could play a vital role in reducing excess nutrients and pollutants, thus contributing to aquatic system remediation. However, effectively utilizing this ecosystem service to benefit both natural ecosystems and human communities remains a challenge. In the UK, a lack of data on the remediation capacity of blue mussels hampers efforts by government regulators and the shellfish aquaculture industry to justify and implement mussel restoration programs. My research will address this data gap by integrating physiological experiments, genomic analysis, population connectivity modelling, and a natural capital approach. By generating data on remediation potential, developing genomic tools, modelling larval dispersal, and quantifying ecosystem value, this project aims to equip mussel restoration initiatives with the evidence and strategic leverage needed for effective implementation..

Toward the end of my Marine Biology undergraduate degree, I was certain I wanted to continue my academic journey with a postgraduate degree. My previous placement had confirmed my research interest in shellfish ecology and aquaculture, so when I discovered this CDT SuMMeR PhD studentship, I knew it was the ideal opportunity. The comprehensive tuition coverage and training budget granted by the studentship were key factors in my decision to apply, especially as an international student facing significantly higher tuition fees.