I am interested in coral reef restoration through sexual coral propagation. For my PhD I am studying ways to optimize the survivorship, growth and cost-effectiveness of different coral rearing and outplant techniques in Palau. I am exploring different shapes of settlement units, various outplant ages and sizes and differing levels of grazer deterrent. Whilst spending extended time doing research in Palau, I worked with local stakeholders to train them in coral rearing and outplanting techniques. 

 
In 2016 I completed my M.Sc. in Marine Environmental Management at the University of York. For my summer placement, I secured an internship at the Gates Coral Lab in Hawaii. Here I studied the effects of bleaching on the reproduction of a broadcast spawning coral to selectively breed higher temperature tolerance. In 2014 I completed my B.Sc. in Biology at Utrecht University. For my thesis, I studied the removal of nutrients in the coral reef display at the Burgers’ Zoo Coral Reef Aquarium and set up a protocol. I have always had a great affinity for the ocean and love diving and working on coral reef ecosystems.