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Saltmarsh ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and coastal defence. Often called the “kidneys of the earth,” they filter pollutants and excess nutrients, including nitrate from fertilisers, which can harm water quality and aquatic life.

Led by Dr Karina Marsden, this research explores how these habitats process nitrate—ideally converting it into harmless nitrogen gas. However, under certain conditions, they can release nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas 273 times more potent than carbon dioxide. "Using cutting-edge techniques, this project aims to understand and reduce these emissions, ensuring saltmarshes remain powerful allies in the fight against climate change," says Dr Marsden.

I am hugely grateful to Dr Marsden and Dr Wen for their tutorship and guidance over the course of the placement, and to the Dr Robert Perrin scholarship for providing this invaluable opportunity. It has broadened and enhanced my understanding of soils, nutrient cycling and greenhouse gas emissions and given me an inspiring insight into the techniques available to study them. This has cemented my interest in soil science and provided me with a range of practical scientific skills and experience that I will take forward into my future studies and, hopefully, career.

Anthony Gunning

Dr Perrin's scholar, undergraduate student in environmental science

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing threats to ocean health, with quantities projected to triple by 2060 under current trends. Once plastics enter seawater, they quickly become colonised by biofilms—layers of microorganisms and encrusting species—that can accelerate plastic breakdown and increase the risk of ingestion by marine life mistaking biofouled plastics for food.

Led by Dr Winnie Courtene-Jones, this research explores how different types of plastics interact with these biofouling communities and how this affects their fate in the marine environment. Through innovative in-situ experiments, the team is generating vital data on biodiversity, succession rates, and degradation processes across bio-based, biodegradable, and conventional plastics.Through innovative in-situ experiments, the team is generating vital data on how different plastic types interact with biofouling communities. These insights will inform environmental risk assessments and guide regulators toward effective strategies to manage and mitigate plastic pollution.

This groundbreaking work is made possible by Dr Robert Perrin’s generous legacy, ensuring his passion for protecting the natural world continues to drive solutions to one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

This scholarship has been invaluable in shaping my future in marine science, thank you to Dr Perrin. Working alongside leading researchers gave me the chance to ask questions, learn from experts, and refine my career goals. The experience taught me that science requires adaptability—methods change, results can surprise, and open-mindedness is key.
My project focused on marine plastic pollution, investigating biofouling communities on different materials, including conventional and biodegradable plastics. Observing how these communities varied over time and across materials was fascinating, and I look forward to further microbial analysis to deepen our understanding of plastics’ impact on marine ecosystems.

Arwen Wall

Dr Perrin's scholar, undergraduate student in Marine Biology and Oceonography

Dr Sophie Ward is leading research into how bottom trawling—a common fishing practice—impacts carbon storage in the ocean. These trawls disturb carbon-rich sediments on the seafloor, releasing material that helps regulate our climate.

The team is mapping where these sediments travel after disturbance, using historic trawling records and ocean current data. Their findings will inform policies to protect blue carbon stores and strengthen global climate solutions.

"This work is vital to understanding how human activity affects the ocean’s ability to store carbon,” says Dr Ward.

Left figure: Total Trawling Intensity as a spatial map highlighting the mostly trawled zones between 2020 - 2023,

Right figure: a Mean Seasonal current map displaying currents speed and direction during the Spring months (March, April, May) of 2020 to 2023

Dr. Perrin´s summer internship has given me the opportunity to improve my research skills and to explore the Blue Carbon and bottom trawling issues in depth. This experience has provided me with a strong foundation for my upcoming MRes, helping me feel prepared to give it my very best from the start. I owe Dr Perrin a great deal!

Marina de Llobet 

Dr Perrin's scholar, undergraduate student in Marine Biology and Oceanography

Seagrass meadows—vital for biodiversity, carbon storage, and coastal protection—are declining worldwide. Restoration efforts often struggle due to low transplant survival, but new approaches could change that.
Led by Dr Katie Dubois, this project explores how co-restoring seagrass with marine invertebrates such as cockles, clams, and worms can boost success. These species naturally enrich sediments with oxygen and nutrients, creating conditions that help seagrass thrive.
The research combines field trials in North Wales with controlled experiments in seawater tanks at ����VR��Ƶ’s School of Ocean Sciences. Findings will inform restoration strategies that strengthen marine ecosystems and combat climate change.
This work is made possible through the legacy of the late Dr Robert Perrin, whose deep commitment to protecting the natural world continues to inspire future generations. His gift empowers students to gain hands-on experience in conservation science while advancing research that safeguards our environment for years to come

The Dr Perrin Scholarship gave me an incredible opportunity to explore research, discover new passions, and gain hands-on experience in seagrass ecology. Working alongside inspiring researchers and engaging in fieldwork and lab experiments has solidified my ambition to pursue a career in marine science. I’m deeply grateful for this chance to start my journey toward a fulfilling future.

June Waddle

Dr Perrin's scholar, undergraduate Marine Biology student