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Bertarelli Foundation
Dr. Nick Dunn
PhD Student (Graduated in 2022), Imperial
College London and Zoological Society of
London, UK
Student: Marine Predators and Fisheries
(2017–2021)
“ The ability to detect species from
single water samples has the
potential to revolutionise marine
monitoring, particularly for rare
and elusive species like sharks
Nick’s PhD research used environmental DNA
(eDNA) to monitor biodiversity in marine
ecosystems and developed eDNA methods for
the detection and monitoring of marine animals.
Because of the non-invasive nature of this
technology, species do not need to be observed
or captured for their presence to be recorded,
making the technique ideal for the study of
elusive and cryptic species such as sharks and
rays. Nick’s research assessed the applicability
of eDNA methods for monitoring reef sharks in
the central Indian Ocean, and compared results
against more established monitoring methods
such as diver surveys and telemetry.
and rays. Nick’s work is helping
to conserve these incredible
species that are so important
for the health of our oceans.”
Early
Career
Lasuni Gule-Godage
MPhil student, Ocean University
of Sri Lanka
Student: Human Dimensions of Illegal,
Unregulated and Unreported Fishing
“Ocean conservation can
only be successful if we
consider the needs of
those most dependent on
it. That’s why it’s vital to
understand the human
dimensions of illegal
fishing and integrate that
understanding into marine
policy management.”
Lasuni’s research project began in 2022 and
focuses on the human dimensions of illegal
fishing, including ascertaining socioeconomic
reasons for non- compliance and evaluating the
deterrence effect of conservation management
and policy. Her research interests relate to
sustainability in marine ecosystems and socioecological aspects of conservation and marine
policy management.