Joe D'Souza
Research student, School of Biosciences
- dsouzajm@cardiff.ac.uk
- +44(0)29 208 75073
- C/5.15, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX
Overview
Whilst we know neuroactive chemicals are pervasive in the environment, a major challenge to understand is their effects beyond those on individual organisms. My PhD project will look to address two main questions: (1) how do neuroactive chemicals affect ecological interactions (e.g., predation and competition) and the networks they form; and (2) do changes to ecological networks result in alterations in ecosystem function? We’ll be looking to combine both empirical and in silico approaches to generate some of the first policy-relevant data and knowledge on the effects and risks of neuroactive chemicals on freshwater ecosystems.
- Undergraduate Education
Cardiff University BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences (with Professional Training Year)
- Awards/External Committees
Welsh Ornithological Society (WOS) – Derek Moore Student Research Award 2018
Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management – 'Promising Professional of the Year 2021' - Highly Commended
- Employment
Consultant Ecologist (2018-2023). Undertook terrestrial ecological surveys, Environmental Statements (ES), Habitat Regulation Assessments (HRAs) and Method Statements for a broad range of projects ranging in scale from local to nationally significant infrastructure projects.
Research
Thesis
Effects of neuroactive chemicals on freshwater ecosystems
Funding source
ECORISC Centre for Doctoral Training
Supervisors
Dr Fredric Windsor
Lecturer - Ecology/Zoology