A marine science student’s ground-breaking research into tiny underwater creatures in the Arctic has won her a top accolade from her university.
Laura Hobbs, who was a PhD student at the Oban-based Scottish Association of Marine Science (SAMS) UHI, was given the postgraduate student of the year title in recognition of her work with zooplankton.
During her studies, the 27-year-old discovered that Arctic zooplankton reacted to moonlight in the dark polar winter.
She observed that they ascend and descend in response to light levels, perhaps to hide from light-dependent predators.
Her findings were published in the Current Biology journal and have been presented at UK and international conferences.
Ms Hobbs was nominated for the award by her director of studies, Dr Finlo Cottier, a senior lecturer in polar oceanography at SAMS UHI.
He said: “Laura has completed 40 months of extraordinary postgraduate achievement and contribution.
“She has become a highly skilled and knowledgeable researcher in Arctic marine ecology and has made breakthrough discoveries in the place undergoing the most rapid change on our planet.
“As well as her exceptional academic skills, Laura has been generous with her time and energy in helping fellow early career scientists and the public understand Polar Regions.”
Ms Hobbs, who comes from Hampshire, said doing her PhD at SAMS UHI had been a wonderful experience.
She said: “The opportunities I’ve had over the last few years have allowed me to develop my skills and networks within the UK and internationally.
“During my four years at SAMS UHI I have been able to travel to remote parts of the world and contribute to high-level research.
“The support, not only from an outstanding supervisory team, but also everyone at SAMS and the wider university network has made my time here very enjoyable.
“I was thrilled to hear that I’d been nominated for the postgraduate student of the year award and feel honoured to have been selected.”
UHI principal and vice-chancellor Professor Clive Mulholland said she was a worthy winner of the postgraduate student of the year award.
He said: “Her work has contributed to our understanding of marine ecology and she has shared her knowledge and passion by taking part in committees, networks and outreach activities.
“I would like to congratulate Laura for her achievements and wish her all the best for her future career.”
Ms Hobbs will be presented with a certificate and a cheque for £150 at the SAMS UHI graduation ceremony on September 9.
