Research profile
I am a marine scientist fascinated by the interplay between ocean and society. My research, at the intersection of social and natural sciences, explores the dynamics of social-ecological systems in tropical coastal regions. I combine network analysis, qualitative system modelling, and participatory approaches to connect diverse knowledge systems. My regional focus is on Latin America, where I work closely with local actors to investigate the social and ecological interactions shaping small-scale fisheries and aquaculture. My overall goal is to link scientific understanding with local realities to co-develop sustainable strategies for the use and protection of marine resources. I have extensive field experience along the Pacific coast, as well as in the Baltic Sea, Mediterranean, Arctic Ocean and the Red Sea. Beyond my research, I am passionate about science communication, environmental education and sparking curiosity in young minds.
Current (and previous) research projects
since 2025: TropEcS - Modelling Socio-Economic Dimensions across Tropical Coastal Ecosystems and the Earth System | Research stream on "Participatory Modelling of Social-Ecological Systems"
2023 - 2025: Humboldt-Tipping II - Alternative Futures of the Northern Humboldt Current Upwelling System under Shared Socioeconomic Pathways | Work package on "Participatory Modelling of Social-Ecological Futures in Coastal Peru"
2021 - 2023: Humboldt Tipping I - Social-Ecological Tipping Points of the Northern Humboldt Current Upwelling System, Economic Repercussions and Governance Strategies | Work package on "Social-Ecological Network Modelling of Coastal Benthic Habitats and their Users"
More information: https://humboldt-tipping.org/ and Humboldt-Tipping (ZMT page); leaflet: Humboldt-Tipping I (pdf)
2020 - 2021: MGF Baltic Sea - Bottom Trawl Exclusion in Marine Protected Areas | DAM sustainMare Research Mission "Protection and Sustainable Use of Marine Areas"