Internship : Nature-Based Solutions for Managing Marine Invasive Species

University of Brest, Universidade do Algarve
Flexible
35 hours a week
English C1

Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) are increasingly promoted to restore and protect coastal ecosystems under climate change. However, their interactions with invasive species remain poorly documented — invasive species can both undermine NbS and, paradoxically, provide ecosystem functions that NbS aim to restore. This project aims to review the state of knowledge on how NbS are used to mitigate marine invasions, and conversely, how invasions influence NbS performance in coastal habitats (e.g., seagrass restoration, oyster reefs, mangroves). The student will identify case studies, assess methodological trends, and develop a typology of NbS–invasion interactions.

Hosting lab : UMR 6308 AMURE – Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer

AMURE is a multidisciplinary research unit focusing on the analysis of marine and coastal systems through the lens of economics, law, and social sciences. Its research supports the sustainable management of marine resources, coastal territories, and maritime activities, integrating ecological, economic, and governance dimensions.

  • Location : UMR 6308 AMURE rue Dumont d’Urville, 29280 Plouzané, France IUEM – Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer. A virtual internship may be possible depending on the student’s needs and availability.
  • Compensation : 600 euros per month (for on-site positions)
  • Student’s disciplines : Social sciences, journalism and information / Natural sciences, mathematics and statistics / Agriculture, forestry, fisheries and veterinary / Social and behavioural sciences / Environment / Biological and related sciences / Fisheries
  • Joint supervision – the students will be supervised by two teachers/researchers from two SEA-EU Universities.
  • Key words : Nature-based solutions, marine invasions, coastal ecosystems, ecosystem restoration, resilience, biodiversity, sustainability, management strategies, ecological economics, adaptation
Tasks and duties entrusted to the student:
  • Conducting a systematic literature review using scientific databases.
  • Classifying NbS approaches according to their function, ecosystem, and invasion type.
  • Synthesizing findings in a conceptual framework or map.
  • Writing a short review report highlighting research needs.
Skills to be acquired or developed:
  • Research synthesis and critical review techniques.
  • Familiarity with NbS and marine ecosystem restoration.
  • Conceptual mapping and typology development.
  • Academic writing and presentation skills.
Melina Kourantidou, melina.kourantidou@univ-brest.fr, (+33) 745579453