Nitrogen Pollution in Tropical Coral Ecosystems

Jessica Arnull is a dedicated marine ecologist pursuing her PhD at the University of Edinburgh, where she investigates the impacts of nitrogen pollution on coral reefs and seagrass ecosystems in South Asia. Her academic journey includes an undergraduate degree in Geography from the University of Bristol and an MSc in Marine Systems and Policies from the University of Edinburgh. As a qualified secondary school Geography teacher, she integrates education as a fundamental aspect of her research work. Her research portfolio includes significant contributions to understanding marine ecosystems, notably her work on how sea cucumber farming (Holothuria scabra) positively influences seagrass growth rates, and her comprehensive analysis of anthropogenic nitrogen pollution's effects on South Asian coral reefs. Her fieldwork spans multiple global locations, including Madagascar, the Maldives, and Australia, where she focuses on coastal biogeochemistry and blue carbon ecosystems. Arnull's research is particularly centered on developing nature-based solutions for marine conservation and coastal livelihood adaptation in response to climate change challenges. She currently contributes to the South Asian Nitrogen Hub project, combining her expertise in seagrasses, coral reefs, coastal biogeochemical cycling, and interdisciplinary approaches to address pressing environmental challenges.

Dr. Meriwether Wilson is a Reader in Marine Science and Policy at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on the intricate connections between science, policy, and society in marine ecosystems. Her expertise spans biodiversity, ocean governance, and climate adaptation, with a particular emphasis on small island developing states (SIDS) and large-ocean island nations. Dr. Wilson's academic journey includes degrees from Duke University (BA), Yale University (MES), and a PhD from the University of Washington. Her career encompasses over two decades of practical experience in marine protected areas and sustainable development, working with international organizations like the World Bank across diverse ocean environments in the Pacific, Caribbean, Europe, and the Red and Black Seas. At the University of Edinburgh, Dr. Wilson co-founded and co-directs the Edinburgh Ocean Leaders Programme, established the interdisciplinary MSc in Marine Systems and Policies, and contributes to the UKRI-GCRF South Asian Nitrogen Hub. Her research explores critical areas such as marine spatial planning, ecosystem services, and the restoration of near-shore marine ecosystems to enhance climate security for island nations. Dr. Wilson's work is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature, bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application in marine conservation and policy

Professor Sandy Tudhope is a distinguished climate scientist at the University of Edinburgh, serving as the Professor of Climate Studies and the University's Lead on Climate Responsibility and Sustainability. His research primarily focuses on corals and coral reefs, exploring the nature and drivers of tropical climate variability and change, with a particular emphasis on the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) climate phenomenon. Prof. Tudhope's work has significantly contributed to our understanding of past and future climate variability, as evidenced by his major publications on reef-based reconstructions of Eastern Pacific climate variability and the evolution of El Niño through glacial-interglacial cycles.

Dr. Amber Carter is a social-ecological marine scientist who recently completed her PhD at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on the adaptation and resilience of small-scale fishing communities in Madagascar. Her interdisciplinary research combines marine ecology, climate science, and social science to investigate how marine governance arrangements can benefit both ecosystems and human communities under future climate change conditions. Dr. Carter's work spans diverse global contexts, including Madagascar, the Maldives, Mexico, and Florida, where she employs innovative methods such as community-led filmmaking to enhance the applicability of her research in local settings.

Shaha Hashim is a distinguished marine conservationist who has been at the forefront of protecting the Maldives' marine ecosystems for over 18 years. As the Chairperson of Maldives Resilient Reefs and Project Manager for Blue Marine Foundation, Hashim has led transformative nationwide campaigns such as #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass, #SaveOurSharks, and #FishForTomorrow, which have resulted in significant policy changes and increased protection for marine species. Her innovative approaches include establishing a sustainable resort reef fishery model at Six Senses Laamu and developing the 'Laamaseelu Farudhun' citizen science program to engage young Maldivians in marine conservation. Hashim's expertise spans improved marine protection, sustainable coral reef-based fisheries, sustainable tourism, and capacity building in marine conservation. Her contributions have been recognized with the prestigious Rehendhi Award in 2021, a national accolade for Maldivian women in STEM. Currently pursuing an MSc by Research at the University of Exeter focusing on marine historical ecology of the Maldives, Hashim continues to work on creating effective models for marine conservation while serving as a Research Partner Lead for the South Asian Nitrogen Hub. Her work has been instrumental in supporting the creation of new Marine Protected Areas, promoting sustainable practices in fisheries and tourism, and engaging local communities in marine conservation efforts, making her a key figure in the Maldivian marine conservation landscape.