Investigating environmental contaminants in Flapper skate egg cases
Flapper skates, a critically endangered species in Scottish waters, may face health risks from pollution. Their egg cases, which develop over a year, can absorb harmful contaminants from the environment. This project will study beach-cast egg cases from Orkney to measure pollutants like metals and pharmaceuticals using advanced lab techniques. Results will help assess risks to skate embryos and inform conservation efforts.
The project runs for one year from 1 October 2025 and we are looking for a self-funded MRES candidate with lab and chemistry skills who want to support marine conservation through environmental analysis.
Start Date: 1 October 2025
The MRes (Marine Science) research programme provides the skills and knowledge in areas of marine science from coasts to deep ocean, and related fields of biogeochemistry, biotechnology and robotics.
Research projects can range from ‘blue sky’ science to applied research addressing pressing societal and environmental problems. You will gain knowledge in research design as well as in management and communication.
The programme is delivered by research-active scientists across multiple disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, geology and social sciences. Research projects can be field based, desktop or in laboratories.