I am a marine biologist with a specific interest in understanding the resilience and adaptive capabilities of coral reefs, especially in relation to human pressure and environmental change. I received my PhD from Wageningen University in 2010, studying the ecophysiology and aquaculture of stony corals. During my postdoctoral research in Taiwan, Japan and Mexico, I further specialized in coral reef ecology, coral reproduction, reef restoration and climate change studies. For me, it is important to keep looking for ways to protect these precious ecosystems for future generations.
Since joining Bureau Waardenburg in 2017, I have been applying my professional experience to a diversity of applied topics in the field of tropical marine ecology: my projects have brought me back to the Caribbean several times (Curacao, Bahamas, Colombia and Saint Lucia). Besides coral reef biodiversity research and developing techniques for monitoring and restoration of coral reefs, I also contribute to the reduction of impacts on coral reefs from development projects (e.g. ecological monitoring, environmental management plans, environmental impact assessments) while working with universities, governments and the private sector.
Joining the research expedition to the Saba Bank fits in my mission to join the Dutch coral reef experts to increase scientific understanding of a variety of reef ecosystems and to provide a future for coral reefs!
Crossing to first spot As I write this blog, the mobile phones are flying away and I have to stop my laptop not to fall down from the table. We spent the night in the lee of the island of Saba and are now on our way to the first…
