Role: Junior Research Scientist

Lorena specialises in seaweed cultivation, disease and marine ecology. She holds a Master's in marine science and Bachelor's in Environmental Science with a focus on marine ecosystems.

With extensive hands-on experience, Lorena has worked with various seaweed species, including Alaria esculenta, Saccharina latissima, Gracilaria caudata, Kappaphycus alvarezii, and Kappaphycus striatus. Her research spans Brazil, Norway, and Indonesia, where she has contributed to kelp processing and quality control, as well as researched fermentation and acid preservation techniques.

Taking a socio-ecological approach, she focuses on disease management in seaweed farming, particularly in addressing Ice-Ice Disease. Additionally, Lorena has experience working with intertidal species such as mussels, oysters, and crabs.

In her current role, Lorena supports the Hatchery Manager in cultivating Irish kelps (Alaria and Saccharina) and Nori (Porphyra) contributing to both research projects and production efforts.