Professor Alex Ford is a Professor of Biology who investigates how humans impact the environment. He has over 20 years experience in academia and has expertise in marine biology, parasitology and environmental toxicology. Using crustaceans primarily as study organisms, he has discovered new parasites that can change the sex and behaviour of marine life. He has determined the impacts of a wide range of pollutants on wildlife from pesticides, plastics, radiation through to compounds found in prescription and illegal drugs. He has served as an editor for several journals and an independent expert to government, industry and conservation charities.

SS-057 - Meet the Academic Alex

Marine Biologists are the first-line of defence for our blue planet, developing and protecting the globe’s saltwater ecosystems. Studying Marine Biology at Portsmouth, you will have active conservation projects to work on, fieldwork trips both near and abroad to participate in, and world class facilities on your doorstep. Portsmouth’s course is ranked number 13 in the UK for Biosciences (Guardian University Guide 2022), and is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, meaning you will be equipped with all the skills and knowledge that any employer in the industry is looking for. You will learn about the diverse range of marine organisms, from phytoplankton to cetaceans, and most importantly how to protect our oceans’ delicate ecosystems against the increasing  threats of climate change, habitat destruction and resource exploitation. The course will also equip you with practical marine skills, with access to the Institute of Marine Sciences and the Solent European Marine Site, with their range of research vessels. Portsmouth also has its own aquatic centre and lab suite, and you will be taught and assessed in a range of ways from traditional lectures and exams, to posters and field-based research projects. You will also have the option to take a placement or study abroad year, and Portsmouth offers a foundation year option to widen access to the course. This course can open doors for many careers in marine biology, including: coastal zone management, environmental toxicology, marine conservation, aquaculture, marine policy, and marine resource management.

Marine Biology (BSc Hons) at University of Portsmouth

In this episode, Professor Alex Ford introduces you to the types of parasites infesting local marine ecosystems, and how pollution to the environment can negatively impact marine life. 

1. An introduction to symbiotic relationships

In this episode, Professor Alex Ford further examines parasites and pollutants and some of the more specific effects they can have on marine life, such as changing behaviours and sex of animals within the ecosystem. Professor Alex Ford also considers some of the knock-on effects this has on us as humans. 

2. Parasites & pollutants that can change behaviour and sex

Episode three delves into marine habitat restoration, examining the need for rewilding, the interaction between biodiversity and climate change, as well as the way we measure coastal habitats. 

3. Marine habitat restoration

In Episode 4, Professor Alex Ford asks you to take a look at Portsmouth’s marine environment and the animals in it, examining the pressures of urbanised pollution, coastal landfills and other challenges. 

4. Activity

University taster in Marine Biology from the University of Portsmouth. Gain insight into studying Marine Biology in this online degree taster

Marine Biology University Taster | Springpod

SS-057 - NS Trailer

SS-057 - Episode 1

In this Subject Spotlight, Professor Alex Ford and Dr Nicolai Roterman present a lecture from the University of Portsmouth’s BSc Marine Biology course, with a keen focus upon localised marine issues, habitat restoration, pollution and marine biodiversity. You will learn about symbiotic relationships, looking at parasites, commensalism and mutualism, and the impact of pollution on the marine environment, as well as why we are rewilding the sea, and the interaction between biodiversity and climate change. As part of this unique, fascinating and interactive Subject Spotlight, you will also complete an activity in which you will consider logical solutions to some of the most pressing marine biology issues of our times. Professor Alex Ford will also give you an overview of possible careers as a result of embarking on this course at the University of Portsmouth.

with Professor Alex Ford & Dr Nicolai Roterman from University of Portsmouth

Marine Biology Subject Spotlight

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Marine Biology with Professor Alex Ford and Dr Nicolai Roterman

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Marine Biology Subject Spotlight

with Professor Alex Ford & Dr Nicolai Roterman from University of Portsmouth

In every Subject Spotlight you’ll find

On-demand interactive video content

Remarkable & relatable academics

Interactive quizzes and activities

Content to enhance students’ personal statements

Certificate of completion

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