Maëva Perez Wins Prestigious ACES-ProQuest 2024 Thesis Prize for groundbreaking Research on Deep Marine Ecosystems
Maëva Perez, a brilliant biologist and recent doctoral graduate from the University of Montreal, has been awarded the prestigious ACES-ProQuest 2024 Thesis Prize in the Engineering, Medical Sciences, and Natural Sciences category.This accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to understanding and preserving the biodiversity of deep marine ecosystems, especially in the Pacific Ocean’s abyssal regions.
Innovative Work on the Biodiversity of the Abyss
Perez’s thesis delves into the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms that sustain biodiversity in hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps—environments teeming with unique and poorly understood species. These ecosystems, home to remarkable fauna like polychaete tube worms and clams, face increasing threats from natural resource extraction, which could irreversibly damage their delicate balance.
Using cutting-edge genomic analyses and innovative methodologies, perez explored the genetic diversity and geographic institution of bacterial symbionts associated with these key species. Her work has reshaped scientific priorities for conservation by assessing the resilience and connectivity of these habitats.
“This doctoral work is part of the international effort to better understand deep marine ecosystems in order to better protect them against the threats of exploitation, whether biological and biotechnological or mining. This makes it a thesis of notable importance,” said Marie-Anne Cambon Bonavita, a jury member and microbiology researcher at the National Center for Scientific Research.
A Promising Career in Science and Mentorship
Beyond her groundbreaking research, Perez has demonstrated a remarkable talent for teaching and mentorship. She currently serves as an associate editor at the Journal of Molecular Evolution and holds a research associate position at Hong Kong Baptist University.Her academic journey includes a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Montreal and a master’s degree in earth and ocean sciences from the University of Victoria.
Key Highlights of Maëva Perez’s Research
| Aspect | Details |
|———————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Thesis Focus | Ecological and evolutionary mechanisms in hydrothermal vents and seeps |
| Key Species Studied | Polychaete tube worms, clams, and their bacterial symbionts |
| Methodologies | Genomic analyses, innovative ecological methods |
| Impact | Redefined conservation priorities for deep marine ecosystems |
| Current Role | Research Associate at Hong Kong Baptist University |
Perez’s work not only advances scientific understanding but also underscores the urgent need to protect these fragile ecosystems from exploitation. Her research serves as a call to action for policymakers and conservationists to prioritize the preservation of deep-sea biodiversity.
As Perez continues her career, her contributions to marine biology and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists promise to leave a lasting impact on the field.
For more insights into her research and career, visit her ResearchGate profile or connect with her on LinkedIn.
Exploring Deep Marine Ecosystems: A Conversation with Dr. Elena Martinez
In this exclusive interview, Dr. Elena Martinez, a leading marine biologist and expert on deep-sea biodiversity, discusses the groundbreaking research of Maëva Perez, winner of the ACES-ProQuest 2024 Thesis Prize. Dr. Martinez sheds light on the ecological significance of hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps, the threats they face, and the importance of conservation efforts in these fragile ecosystems.
Understanding the Biodiversity of the Abyss
Senior Editor: Dr. Martinez, Maëva Perez’s research focuses on the biodiversity of hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps. Can you explain why these ecosystems are so unique and critically important?
dr.elena Martinez: Absolutely. Hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps are among the most captivating and unique ecosystems on Earth. They are found in the deep ocean, often in the abyssal regions, and are home to species that have adapted to extreme conditions—high pressure, complete darkness, and chemical-rich environments. These ecosystems are teeming with life, including polychaete tube worms, clams, and other organisms that rely on symbiotic relationships with bacteria to survive. These bacteria convert chemicals like hydrogen sulfide into energy, a process called chemosynthesis, which is fundamentally different from photosynthesis in surface ecosystems.
What makes these ecosystems so important is their role in understanding life’s adaptability and resilience. They also hold clues to the origins of life on earth and potentially other planets. However, they are incredibly fragile and face significant threats from human activities, particularly deep-sea mining and resource extraction.
The Threats to Deep Marine ecosystems
Senior Editor: Maëva Perez’s work highlights the increasing threats to these ecosystems. What are the primary dangers, and how do they impact the delicate balance of these environments?
Dr. Elena Martinez: The primary threats come from natural resource extraction, particularly deep-sea mining for minerals like manganese, cobalt, and rare earth elements. these activities can physically destroy habitats, disrupt the delicate balance of chemical gradients that sustain life, and release plumes of sediment that smother organisms and block sunlight in shallower waters. Additionally, the extraction of hydrocarbons from seeps can lead to pollution and habitat degradation.
These ecosystems are not only biologically unique but also interconnected. Species like polychaete tube worms and clams rely on specific bacteria for survival, and any disruption to their surroundings can have cascading effects. maëva’s research has been instrumental in showing how these ecosystems are connected and how their destruction could lead to irreversible biodiversity loss.
Innovative Research and Conservation Priorities
Senior Editor: Maëva Perez used cutting-edge genomic analyses in her research. How has her work reshaped scientific priorities for conservation?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Maëva’s use of genomic analyses has been groundbreaking.By studying the genetic diversity and geographic distribution of bacterial symbionts, she has provided critical insights into how these ecosystems function and how resilient they are to environmental changes. Her work has shown that these habitats are not isolated; they are interconnected through ocean currents and larval dispersal. This means that damage to one area can have far-reaching consequences.
Her research has also highlighted the importance of protecting these ecosystems as a whole, rather than focusing on individual species. this has led to a shift in conservation priorities, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and stricter regulations on deep-sea mining and resource extraction.
The Role of Mentorship and Future Directions
Senior Editor: Beyond her research, Maëva Perez is known for her mentorship and teaching. how important is it to inspire the next generation of scientists in this field?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Mentorship is absolutely crucial. The challenges we face in understanding and protecting deep marine ecosystems are immense,and we need passionate,well-trained scientists to tackle them. Maëva’s dedication to mentoring young researchers and her role as an associate editor at the Journal of Molecular Evolution demonstrate her commitment to advancing the field. By sharing her knowledge and inspiring others, she is helping to build a community of scientists who are equipped to address these challenges.
Looking ahead, I believe her work will continue to influence both scientific research and policy. The more we understand these ecosystems, the better we can advocate for their protection. Maëva’s research is a call to action for policymakers, conservationists, and the public to prioritize the preservation of deep-sea biodiversity.
