Senior Researcher
I am a researcher at the Institute of Marine Science (ICM–CSIC) (Barcelona, Spain), and group coordinator of iMARES research group. My research focuses on understanding patterns and processes that characterize marine ecosystems and, in particular, changes of, and threats to, marine biodiversity and ecological interactions. I study community and food-web dynamics linked with human activities (such as fisheries, eutrophication, invasive species and climate change), and how these translate into changes in ecosystem structure and functioning, and into services that humans obtain from the ocean.
Current Research:
I develop and apply a variety of ecological analyses based on food web and ecosystem modelling techniques and statistical tools, and I use historical data, experimental results and field data sets. I lead and participate in national and international research activities, mostly targeting the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. I currently work on developing and testing scenarios of future trajectories of change to find best solutions for transformative management of the oceans.
Research Interests:
I am especially interested in how ecological interactions shape ecosystem structure and functioning, and how they are modified by natural factors and human activities. I focus my research on the pelagic environment, mostly studying the ecological role and relevance of small pelagic fish and main predators. I am also interested to investigate management interventions that can help mitigate the impacts of climate and cumulative change and ensure a balance between conservation and use of marine resources.