Module Directory

This module aims to widen the skill base in practical research by introducing a range of methodologies to aid in the investigation of marine processes.

The module will address the most wanted skills and support the material delivered in theory modules by focusing on the components biogeochemistry and physiology. Students will acquire many of the fundamental and some specialised practical skills to effectively operate as professional marine biologists.

The aim of this module is:

• To sharpen the skill base in practical research by introducing a range of methodologies that aid in the investigation of marine processes.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate an ability to follow science-based methodologies to undertake a research task.


2. Count microorganisms using a haemocytometer.


3. Explain the basic components used in gas chromatography.


4. Employ gas chromatography for the quantification of dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and its precursor dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP).


5. Explain how coastal environments contribute to the production of DMS and discuss its effect on climate.


6. Explain the basic principles of active fluorescence-derived measures of marine productivity.


7. Analyse data collected by a PAM fluorometer.


8. Employ oxygen electrode techniques for measuring marine productivity.


9. Discuss the effects of environment and climate change on photosynthesis and primary production.

Skills for your Professional Life (Transferable Skills)

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Communicate scientific information.


2. Plan and execute teamwork to set deadlines.

The UK Natural Environment Research Council recently listed the most wanted Postgraduate and Professional Skills Needs in the Environment Sector. Multi-disciplinarity, Data Management, Numeracy, and Translating Research into Practice were among the top most wanted and cross-disciplinary skills identified.

Biogeochemistry component: Trace gas production
Coastal environments are important sources and sinks for climate-active trace gases including dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and isoprene. Corals and anemones, and their symbiotic dinoflagellate (Symbiodinium sp.) are among the highest producers of the DMS-precursor dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP). This osmolyte can be enzymatically converted to DMS and forms part of a stress-induced anti-oxidant cascade that protects cells from harmful reactive oxygens. You will use gas chromatography to quantify DMS production and consumption patterns in Symbiodinium sp. and its symbiotic host, the anemone Aiptasia pallida. Taken together, this will enable you to construct a budget on the flow of sulfur in symbiotic cnidarians.

Physiology Component: Photophysiology and Impacts of Environment
Macroalgae play a fundamental role in coastal environments around the globe. They sustain high levels of productivity, providing nourishment directly for grazers and indirectly, as particulate and dissolved organic material, for filter feeders, detrital feeders and engulfers. Measurements of algal productivity provide important information as to the rate at which algal biomass (carbon or energy) can accumulate to be available to higher trophic levels as well as the ability of aquatic systems to sequester CO2 from the atmosphere. This practical will introduce you to (1) conventional (O2) and modern (active fluorescence) techniques for assaying physiology and productivity and (2) the effect of elevated CO2 on photosynthesis.

This module will be delivered via:

• Twelve hours of seminars.
• Fourteen hours of practicals.