FPU2023_Microplastics in Marine Habitats

Plastic pollution has permeated every part of the global oceans, posing a significant threat to diverse ecosystems at multiple levels, from individual species and food webs to entire habitats. Deepening our understanding of the effects of marine plastic pollution, as well as preventing and mitigating its impact, represents one of the most pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges of our time. Extensive research has documented the impact of microplastics (MPs) on various marine species, from copepods to large predators, revealing a wide range of ecotoxicological effects, including acute gastrointestinal damage, altered swimming behavior, and disruptions in lipid and energy balance. These effects at the species level have the potential to alter food chains and create niche imbalances. However, the broader impact of microplastics at the ecosystem and global scales, as well as their potential influence on climate change, is only now beginning to receive attention. Within this project, the research team will provide the necessary training for a PhD student. Specifically, the PhD thesis will aim at assessing microplastic ingestion, retention, and accumulation in marine species, evaluating their role as biotic reservoirs, sinks, sources, and vectors within the plastic cycle through an innovative approach that will integrate oceanographic surveys, topological analysis and geospatial modelling. The candidate will build up a strong scientific background.