Around the world in pursuit of marine conservation
Passionate about coral reef biology, PhD candidate Rianna Collins has travelled all over the globe learning about how delicate marine systems may be affected by future environmental changes.
Over four weeks in May and June, Rianna travelled to the United States to take part in “Molecular and Cell Biology of Symbiosis”—an advanced research training course at the world-leading Marine Biological Laboratory in Massachusetts. In its inaugural year and led by researchers from the Carnegie Institute—Phillip Cleves and Yixian Zheng—admission was competitive. Rianna was one of only 12 participants selected to attend from a total of 50 applicants. Rianna spent her days attending keynote lectures, conducting lab research, and presenting her research to international experts.
“This course taught me key skills which I will use in my PhD. I got the opportunity to meet leaders in my field, form invaluable connections, foster future collaborations, and gain confidence in presenting my research,” Rianna says.
Rianna is in the second year of her PhD, researching the biological relationships between coral and algae in coral reefs. Her work aims to discover how thermal stress can change the biological substances that are released by these organisms in coral ecosystems. She’s intrigued with how novel laboratory techniques can help scientists understand coral reefs, their complex interactions with other species, and how we may be able to sustain them in uncertain future environmental conditions.
“I find this incredibly complex but exciting, and a topic that plays an exceedingly important role in not only our understanding of coral reefs, but our ability to preserve their futures.”
Rianna cites the extensive experience of her co-supervisor Professor Simon Davy as one of the main reasons she decided to complete her PhD at Te Herenga Waka.
“Simon gives me free rein to explore areas of research that interest me, provides incredible feedback on all aspects of my project, and always pushes me to work at a higher standard. He facilitates my learning in any way possible, including attending conferences, research courses, or field trips.”
Last year Rianna travelled with Professor Davy to an international conference in Bremen, Germany, where she learnt about novel coral reef research and networked with scientists from all parts of the world.
“It was an amazing chance to see differing perspectives on future coral reef research directions.”
While she’s had many opportunities to network further afield, Rianna’s also made connections with other students through working as a tutor and lab demonstrator. Overall, she says that her experience so far has more than lived up to her expectations.
“I have met such a diverse range of people with such a dedication to their work, which is so inspiring. There is a great community within the School of Biological Sciences where all members of the School community strive to provide support and advice for each other.”