PhD student and Research Technician at the Marine Species Stranding Network of the Valencian Community, at University of Valencia, Spain.
Claudia Pons Bordas is a Spanish marine biologist dedicated to understanding marine mammal health and biodiversity conservation. Born on June 7, 1995, in Valencia, Spain, Claudia is currently a Ph.D. student in Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Valencia’s Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology. Her research focuses on the ecology and pathology of gastric parasites affecting cetaceans, aiming to shed light on their impacts on marine ecosystems. With professional experience in field studies and necropsy, Claudia contributes to conservation efforts through her work with the Valencian Community’s marine species stranding network. Passionate about the ocean and its creatures, she has presented her findings at international conferences and has been involved in educational outreach. 🌎 Her fluency in Spanish and English enables her to collaborate with researchers worldwide.
Profile
Scopus
Education
🎓 Claudia pursued a Bachelor’s in Biology (2013-2017) at the University of Valencia, where she first engaged with marine mammal studies. She then completed a Master’s in Animal Biodiversity: Conservation and Evolution (2017-2018) at the same institution, graduating with honors in nematology. During this period, she also took certified courses in marine mammal ecology, population genetics, and R for biodiversity studies, deepening her analytical skills. Currently, Claudia is advancing her academic journey as a Ph.D. student in Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology at the Marine Zoology Unit of the University of Valencia. Her thesis explores the phylogeography and pathology of gastric parasites in cetaceans, supervised by experts Dr. Francisco Javier Aznar Avendaño, Dr. María Mercedes Fernández Martínez, and Dr. Natalia Fraija Fernández. 🐬 Her studies uniquely prepare her for impactful contributions to marine biodiversity conservation.
Experience
🛠️ Claudia has extensive experience in marine biology. She began with internships, including one at the Department of Marine Mammals, Oceanogràfic of Valencia (700 hours), where she gained hands-on experience with marine mammals. In her M.Sc. internship at the Marine Zoology Unit, she participated in boat-based surveys, monitoring cetaceans, sea turtles, and fish populations. 📊 Since 2018, she has conducted predoctoral research at the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO) in Galicia, where her focus has been on dissecting and studying gastric parasites in stranded cetaceans. Additionally, she has served as a thesis co-tutor for undergraduate and graduate students in biology. As a speaker, Claudia has shared her expertise with students and the public in outreach events like “Women and Science” and workshops on cetacean biology. Her teaching and peer review contributions further establish her as a dedicated professional in marine biodiversity.
Research Interest
🔬 Claudia’s research centers on marine mammal health and conservation, specifically through the study of parasitology and its implications for marine biodiversity. Her Ph.D. thesis investigates the ecology, phylogeography, and pathology of gastric parasites in cetaceans, which play crucial roles in ocean ecosystems. She collaborates with the Valencian Community’s marine species stranding network, analyzing tissue samples and pathology to assess the health of species like the bottlenose dolphin and harbor porpoise. Her fieldwork includes boat-based surveys and laboratory dissections, where she documents parasite-host interactions and their effects on species health. 🐋 Claudia is passionate about translating her findings into conservation strategies and has engaged in projects such as “AICO 2021/022” and “TRANSITION” on trophic relationships and pressures in oceanic nekton, aiming to advance biodiversity protection frameworks.
Awards
🏆 Claudia’s contributions to marine biology have earned her recognition throughout her academic career. She graduated with honors from her M.Sc. program, particularly for her outstanding work in nematology. As a member of the necropsy team for the Valencian Community’s stranding network, she has consistently demonstrated her dedication to conservation, leading to awards supporting her research initiatives. Her projects have received backing from notable organizations, including the Generalitat Valenciana and the Ministry for Ecological Transition. Her work has also contributed to internationally recognized projects, notably LIFE CONCEPTU MARIS, focused on Mediterranean cetacean conservation. These awards underscore her commitment to marine biodiversity and her role in advancing understanding of marine species’ health and conservation. 🌐
Publications
📝 Claudia has contributed valuable research to marine parasitology and biodiversity conservation. Below are some of her key publications:
- “Recent increase of ulcerative lesions caused by Anisakis spp. in cetaceans from the Northeast Atlantic” (2020) – Journal of Helminthology Link
- “Parasites as integral elements of cetacean biology: the digenean Pholeter gastrophilus as a case study” (2021) – in Contributions to the global management and conservation of marine mammals, Artemis Link
- “Conservation implications of gastric parasite-host dynamics in cetaceans” (Conference Paper, 2022) – European Cetacean Society Link
Conclusion
Claudia Pons Bordas has a strong and promising profile for the Research for Best Researcher Award in marine zoology. Her academic achievements, hands-on research experience, and contributions to conservation initiatives make her a strong contender. By enhancing her international collaborations, diversifying her research scope, and stepping into leadership roles, Claudia could elevate her already substantial contributions to marine biodiversity and conservation. Her current trajectory and accomplishments make her a valuable and competitive candidate for the award.