Jordan Van Stavel holds a BTech in Oceanography from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She has recently undertaken her MSc in Biological Oceanography with Nelson Mandela University, in collaboration with the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON).
Jordan’s research will focus on the functional roles of the benthic invertebrate epifauna (spineless critters living on the seafloor) inhabiting the offshore regions (> 200 m) of South Africa and the influence of environmental processes on their distribution across different ecosystem types. Globally, and in South Africa, offshore benthic ecosystems are challenging to access and remain poorly understood.
I hope that my research can play even the smallest role in advancing the knowledge and understanding of the importance of benthic biodiversity in sustaining healthy ocean systems.
So proud of you Jordie!!! xx
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