A cheeky isopod watches the researcher during a social behavioural experiment at the University of Plymouth.

Hello

I’m a perpetually damp and salt-encrusted Marine Biologist working on my PhD.

My research focuses on intertidal crustaceans, notably isopods and hermit crabs, but I have a passion for understanding crustaceans and other invertebrates in both marine and terrestrial habitats.

Dividing my time between tinkering in the lab and trekking through rockpools, I pursue answers to questions about how these captivating crustaceans perceive and interact in their watery world.

I have many interests; however, I focus on issues relating to the evolution and ecology of information processing, sensation, and decision-making—and, dare I add, maybe even the BIG questions about cognition and consciousness—in animal life.

Research

Hermit crab exploring a sandy pool in the rocky shore near Looe, UK

My research mainly examines the evolution of information processing and the sensory biology, behaviour and physiology of intertidal crustaceans, particularly hermit crabs and isopods (woodlice, sea pills, etc.).

Serrated sea pill-ball mating behaviour, the male guards the female by holder her tight until she's ready to mate
The compound eyes and antennae of sea slaters are important sensory appendages

Common European hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus) coming out of its shell after a startle! The startle response of hermit crabs is a comon way to examine the behaviour of these crustaceans.

Upclose view of the antennules, antennae and compound eyes of the beautiful beach flea

I use photography in my research and my daily life, capturing the natural world that I love to study and explore.