Postdoc from Marine Science Institute of Barcelona (ICM), Spain
Dr. Teresa Maria Morganti is a distinguished marine ecologist and biochemist whose research delves into the feeding ecology and metabolism of benthic organisms, particularly marine sponges. Her work emphasizes the pivotal role these organisms play in nutrient and carbon cycling within marine ecosystems. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at the Marine Science Institute of Barcelona (ICM-CSIC), where she evaluates Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) options from a natural science perspective, focusing on potential side effects on marine ecosystems. Dr. Morganti’s expertise encompasses ecophysiology, thermal biology, environmental stresses, and energy metabolism. Her interdisciplinary approach combines fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and modeling to understand the complex interactions within marine environments. Her contributions have been instrumental in advancing our knowledge of benthic-pelagic coupling and the ecological functions of sponges in carbon sequestration processes.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Morganti’s academic journey began with a focus on natural sciences, leading her to specialize in marine science. She pursued her Ph.D. in Marine Science at the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC) in Barcelona, Spain, from December 2011 to July 2016, where she concentrated on ecophysiology. Her doctoral research provided insights into the metabolic processes of benthic organisms and their role in marine ecosystems. Prior to her Ph.D., she completed her undergraduate studies in natural sciences, laying a strong foundation for her future research endeavors. Her academic background has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of marine biology, biochemistry, and ecological modeling, enabling her to contribute significantly to the field of marine science.
Professional Experience
Dr. Morganti has amassed extensive professional experience in marine research institutions across Europe. Since November 2017, she has held a postdoctoral position at the Marine Science Institute of Barcelona (ICM-CSIC), where she investigates the ecological implications of CDR strategies. Additionally, she is affiliated with the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen, Germany, as part of the HGF-MPG Joint Research Group for Deep-Sea Ecology and Technology. Her previous roles include serving as a Ph.D. student at the Institut de Ciències del Mar, where she conducted in-depth studies on sponge metabolism and nutrient cycling. Dr. Morganti’s professional trajectory reflects her commitment to understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Research Interests
Dr. Morganti’s research interests are centered on the ecophysiology of benthic organisms, with a particular emphasis on marine sponges. She explores how these organisms contribute to energy and nutrient transfer within marine ecosystems, focusing on their role in benthic-pelagic coupling and carbon cycling. Her work investigates the physiological responses of sponges to environmental stresses, such as temperature fluctuations and nutrient availability, to understand their adaptability and resilience. Additionally, Dr. Morganti is involved in assessing the feasibility and ecological consequences of marine-based CDR methods, aiming to inform sustainable climate mitigation strategies. Her research integrates field observations, laboratory experiments, and ecological modeling to provide a holistic understanding of marine ecosystem dynamics.
Research Skills
Dr. Morganti possesses a diverse skill set that encompasses various aspects of marine science. Her expertise includes ecophysiology, thermal biology, environmental stress analysis, and energy metabolism. She is proficient in underwater photography, which she utilizes to document and analyze benthic organisms in their natural habitats. Dr. Morganti is adept at conducting laboratory experiments to assess metabolic rates and physiological responses of marine species. Her skills extend to ecological modeling, allowing her to simulate and predict ecosystem responses to environmental changes. Additionally, she has experience in evaluating CDR processes, contributing to interdisciplinary research on climate change mitigation. Her comprehensive skill set enables her to address complex ecological questions and contribute valuable insights to marine science.
Awards and Honors
While specific awards and honors for Dr. Morganti are not detailed in the available information, her affiliations with prestigious research institutions such as the Marine Science Institute of Barcelona (ICM-CSIC) and the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology underscore her recognition in the scientific community. Her involvement in significant research projects, including assessments of marine CDR methods, reflects her contributions to addressing global environmental challenges. Dr. Morganti’s work has been cited extensively, indicating her influence and impact within the field of marine ecology and biogeochemistry.
Conclusion
Dr. Teresa Maria Morganti’s career exemplifies a profound dedication to understanding the complexities of marine ecosystems and their responses to environmental changes. Through her research on the ecophysiology of benthic organisms and the evaluation of CDR strategies, she contributes to the development of sustainable solutions for climate change mitigation. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and modeling, provides comprehensive insights into the functioning of marine ecosystems. Dr. Morganti’s work not only advances scientific knowledge but also informs policy and conservation efforts aimed at preserving marine biodiversity and ecosystem services. Her ongoing research continues to shed light on the vital roles of benthic organisms in maintaining the health and stability of our oceans.
Publications Top Notes
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A community perspective on the concept of marine holobionts: current status, challenges, and future directions
Authors: SM Dittami, E Arboleda, JC Auguet, A Bigalke, E Briand, P Cárdenas, …
Journal: PeerJ
Year: 2021
Citations: 101
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Size is the major determinant of pumping rates in marine sponges
Authors: TM Morganti, M Ribes, G Yahel, R Coma
Journal: Frontiers in Physiology
Year: 2019
Citations: 91
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Trophic niche separation that facilitates co‐existence of high and low microbial abundance sponges is revealed by in situ study of carbon and nitrogen fluxes
Authors: T Morganti, R Coma, G Yahel, M Ribes
Journal: Limnology and Oceanography
Year: 2017
Citations: 89
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Giant sponge grounds of Central Arctic seamounts are associated with extinct seep life
Authors: TM Morganti, BM Slaby, A de Kluijver, K Busch, U Hentschel, …
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2022
Citations: 39
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Bacterial precursors and unsaturated long-chain fatty acids are biomarkers of North-Atlantic deep-sea demosponges
Authors: A de Kluijver, KGJ Nierop, TM Morganti, MC Bart, BM Slaby, U Hanz, …
Journal: PLOS ONE
Year: 2021
Citations: 31
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In situ pumping rate of 20 marine demosponges is a function of osculum area
Authors: TM Morganti, M Ribes, R Moskovich, J Weisz, G Yahel, R Coma
Journal: Frontiers in Marine Science
Year: 2021
Citations: 31
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In situ observation of sponge trails suggests common sponge locomotion in the deep central Arctic
Authors: TM Morganti, A Purser, HT Rapp, CR German, MV Jakuba, L Hehemann, …
Journal: Current Biology
Year: 2021
Citations: 24
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VacuSIP, an improved InEx method for in situ measurement of particulate and dissolved compounds processed by active suspension feeders
Authors: T Morganti, G Yahel, M Ribes, R Coma
Journal: JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments)
Year: 2016
Citations: 24
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The removal of dissolved organic matter by marine sponges is a function of its composition and concentration: An in situ seasonal study of four Mediterranean species
Authors: M Ribes, G Yahel, C Romera-Castillo, R Mallenco, TM Morganti, R Coma
Journal: Science of The Total Environment
Year: 2023
Citations: 16
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Habitat types and megabenthos composition from three sponge-dominated high-Arctic seamounts
Authors: T Stratmann, E Simon-Lledó, TM Morganti, A de Kluijver, A Vedenin, …
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2022
Citations: 16