Exploring the dynamic interactions between sediments, microorganisms and materials in coastal systems.

Research within the Hope Laboratory focuses on the interactions between benthic ecology, hydrology and ecosystem processes in coastal ecosystems. Key research areas include the understanding the role of biota in influencing microplastics and sediment transport. The influence of anthropogenic stressors (microplastics, pesticides, metals and organic pollutants) and climate related changes (global warming, extreme weather events such as heatwaves and storms) on benthic ecosystem structure and function.

We are part of the Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, with a lovely coastal view out on to East Sands beach, St Andrews. and easy access to a variety of coastal habitats.

Effects of microplastics on benthic ecosystems

Benthic system responses to extreme weather events

The role of biota on the flux and transport of materials

News

Plastic Free July 25 At the Hope lab we are going to create a series of posts around Plastics in the environment, in our homes and in our labs. See more on our blog page and on socials

June 2025 PhD student Michael presented his poster at the School of Biology PRG conference this month - well done on a fantastic poster (complete with the actual skyline of the site as the background graphics!)

EGU 2025 Julie presented her work on benthic biofilms trapping microplastics at the EGU in Vienna in May 2025. It was fantastic to get back to conferences, something that has been more difficult in recent years. It was also amazing to meet up with old colleagues from the Energy and Environment Institute at the University of Hull and meet new researchers