Dr Mariana Lima is a Marine Biologist whose research focuses on the impacts of global environmental change such as climate change, pollution, and anthropogenic degradation on blue carbon coastal ecosystems. Her work supports the advancement of marine conservation strategies by investigating carbon storage and sequestration processes in seagrass meadows, saltmarshes, and other aquatic habitats.
She holds a PhD in Environment from the University of Brighton, where she explored the effects of climate change on the carbon storage potential of UK seagrass ecosystems. She also earned an MSc in Ecology and Biology of Freshwater Environments and Inland Fisheries from the National Institute of Amazonian Research (INPA) in Brazil, where she examined the physiological responses of Amazonian fish to alternative protein diets. Her academic journey began with a BSc in Marine Biology from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.
In addition to her academic background, Dr Lima brings valuable professional experience from the private sector, having worked as an environmental consultant in Brazil. In this role, she conducted environmental impact assessments for coastal infrastructure developments, including harbours and ports, providing a practical perspective that enriches her academic research.
Dr Lima is currently a Lecturer in Marine Biology and Programme Leader for Marine Biology at the University of Salford. She leads and teaches modules across marine ecology, fisheries science, conservation biology, and environmental management, and has served as an external examiner for Marine Biology programmes in the UK.
Her ongoing research projects span topics such as seagrass biodiversity, blue carbon dynamics, molecular ecology, and Arctic wetland resilience. She collaborates with national and international partners to develop nature-based solutions that support biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable ecosystem management.
