Researching microplastic pollution and climate change
Samiha Mona came from Bangladesh to Plymouth to study MRes Marine Biology
I am currently studying marine biology at the University
I completed my undergraduate degree back in Bangladesh in 2013. After that, while looking for an opportunity to pursue my postgraduate degree in a foreign country, I also completed MSc in Fisheries Biology and Genetics in Bangladesh.
I was looking for a degree that involved marine research quite intricately. I searched for a few universities and joined some open days. After having a look at several universities, Plymouth had the best opportunity for me. While browsing the research on the marine environment, I was completely amazed.
The prospect of the University in terms of gaining knowledge on the marine environment and its dwellers is fascinating. My primary interest is to work with marine pollution, specifically plastic pollution. The University has a whole internationally renowned research unit that is actively working with marine litter.
My programme is more research-focused, nonetheless each module in my programme reflected the diversity of marine life and the environment.
Marine biology is a comprehensive and dynamic subject; the modules are constructed and delivered well to provide the students with the right knowledge and skills. The modules included field trips which I enjoyed the most – I think the practical approaches will help me in the future in many ways.
All the lecturers were amazing and full of experience. The professors are very friendly and provided support whenever possible. While conducting my experiments, I received great support from my supervisors and lab technicians at the University.
MRes Marine Biology is designed to give you all the necessary knowledge and skills to be an effective marine biologist.
I am interested in marine pollution and its effects on marine life
My project focuses on the effects of tyre leachates on the behaviour and physiology of intertidal animals. This is quite new research with tyre leachates and their impact. Climate change is itself a big concern to marine environments and animals.
Climate change and microplastic pollution together may cause a threat to marine life. Hence, I have particularly chosen the topic for my research project. And I am hopeful that I am going to make some contribution through my research.
I would like to build a career in marine research
After completing my degree, I would like to get a PhD with the University. Meanwhile, I will be collaborating with some researchers and helping them with projects. The University is helping graduates to find a career through the career service based in the library.
For the time being, I would like to stay in the UK to get enough knowledge and skills to be an effective marine biologist. The University provides excellent support to international students to get higher education.
If I get an opportunity to work with the University in future that would be great.
Living in a city like Plymouth is exciting
Once you got some time to roam around then you will realise how beautiful it is. It is so nice to live in a city like Plymouth – an absolute pleasure. It is quite different to stay here in Plymouth compared to the place I lived in Bangladesh. It is an incredibly beautiful city with nice and friendly people, so anyone can settle down in a brief period.
There is a lot to do, visit and enjoy in Plymouth and the best part is the ocean that is not too far from the University. And the view of the Plymouth Sound is breathtaking.
Once you are here, soon Plymouth will be your second home.
MRes Marine Biology
Marine biology is a broad and dynamic subject, reflecting the diversity of marine ecosystems and the fantastic array of life they contain. Biological marine processes exert massive influences on the Earth's climate and biogeochemical cycling. Closely linked with the diverse research pursuits of scientists at the Marine Biological Association (MBA) and University, this programme allows you to develop research skills in a marine context that are widely applicable.
