Cat Joniver BSc Environmental Geography (York), MSc Marine Environmental Protection (Bangor)

My PhD focuses on assessing the extent of macroalgae (predominately Ulva species) in Milford Haven for sustainable commercial harvesting purposes. The study will investigate various harvesting techniques for these opportunistic macroalgae and the effect that harvesting may have on the ecosystem. Data will be collected via aerial and acoustic surveys and core sampling as well as in situ animal diversity and behaviour surveys involving birds, crabs and fish. A socioeconomic assessment will evaluate impacts of this opportunistic algae which may help remediate Milford Haven inner waterbody as a nitrogen vulnerable zone.

This PhD works with industry partners from GreenSeas Resources (www.greenseas.co.uk). The project is funded by Greenseas and Kess 2 (http://kess2.ac.uk/) and commenced in September 2018.