Oxidative stress in Antarctic and non-Antarctic marine invertebrates: effects of human-induced and global climate change stressors

This PhD project is centered around enhancing our ability to predict the sensitivity of marine
invertebrate species to the effects of both human-induced and climate change stressors. Specifically,
oxidative damage and antioxidant responses are investigated in a range of marine invertebrates and
their larval stages in response to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and UV radiation.
Oxidative stress is furthermore investigated as a possible mediator of life history trade-offs in these
species. By contrasting the fundamental biological process of oxidative stress in polar species with
that exhibited in non-polar species, my research will provide an insight into adaptations in Antarctic
species that may be driven by their polar environment. With the goal of improved conservation and
management of the Antarctic marine environment in mind, this project aligns directly with the
unifying and overarching theme of global change outlined in the New Zealand Antarctic and
Southern Ocean Science framework 2010-2020.