João R. Nunes

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP) and have recently completed a Master's degree in Marine Sciences - Marine Biology and Ecology at the Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS). My MSc thesis, "Systematic and Automated Aerial Surveys of Rocky Intertidal Communities Using Unmanned Aircraft Systems," was supervised by Dr. Fernando P. Lima and focused on applying low-cost drone technology and machine-learning software to study intertidal ecosystems along the northern Portuguese coast. The results of this research were presented at IJUP’s 17th edition and the 8th Congress of the International Society of Applied Phycology (ISAP), where I was awarded the best student poster presentation. My field experience includes participation in biodiversity research projects across various ecosystems. In 2019, I joined an Operation Wallacea expedition in South Africa, where I enhanced my skills in biodiversity monitoring, particularly in identifying mammals and birds. As part of the same program, I conducted marine biodiversity surveys in Sodwana Bay and obtained my PADI Open Water Diver certification. In 2022, I contributed to the malacology collection at the Museu de História Natural e da Ciência da Universidade do Porto (MHNC-UP) by assisting in the identification, photography, and cataloging of rare marine shells. Beyond research, I am actively involved in science communication, conservation, and citizen science initiatives. Since 2023, I have served as an Ocean Hub Leader for the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) regional hub in Algarve, where I coordinate community engagement efforts, oversee financial management, and lead projects aimed at promoting ocean sustainability while strengthening local community involvement. With a deep passion for marine ecosystems, I am focused on innovative research methods and conservation strategies. I am now preparing to apply for a PhD to further develop my expertise and contribute to the field of marine biology.