Natalie Summers, MSc

What’s the work that you do?

I am using mini remotely operated vehicles (ROV) with hyperspectral cameras to map algae living in the Arctic. Each object of interest has a optical fingerprint that I can use to identify types of algaes. This way, I am able to map kelp forests and microalgae growing on the underside of the ice. I combine this with measuring photosynthetic rates to look at the health state of the algaes. Marine algae are the base of the food web. As they photosynthesis, they use up carbon dioxyde and release oxygen. The overall goal is to better understand algal dynamics in space and time in the Arctic.

What keeps you going?

I enjoy exploration and pushing the boundaries of science. Life in the Arctic has adapted to extreme cold as well as extreme light cycles (3 months of darkness and 3 months of sun). These extreme conditions have also made it challenging for researchers. Because of this I get to be part of interdisciplinary teams of researchers allowing us to develop new methods to study the Arctic. I work with marine technologists that make the robots and sensors I use to gather data, while I get to analyse and interpret the biological results.

What’s your message to the world?

Our world is fascinating and changing fast. The key is to stay curious, keep an open mind and work with as many people from different backgrounds as possible.