Elisha is an M-degree student and graduated in 2013.
Why did you choose to study / research marine biology?
Like most marine scientists, as a child I always loved the sea. Growing up I wanted to be a doctor or a lawyer, but when I was offered a place on an applied practical science course I quickly learnt that I was a natural scientist at heart, both excelling and gaining passion for biology. I then decided “why not combine science and my love of the seaside”… and here we are.
What is your research project about?
I am looking into the tube-building polychaete worm Sabellaria alveolata and the extensive colonies that it creates. I am rearing S. alveolata from eggs, through to the larval stages then and getting them to settle. This is great for potential reef restoration projects, and I am doing this all whilst gaining an insight about the behaviour of these animals.
Interesting fact about yourself?
I have a pet albino pygmy hedgehog; he’s pretty grumpy and prickly around new people but a real quirky character once he comes round. It’s not always easy to hug a hedgehog, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.