Ocean acidification (OA) is expected to profoundly alter the diversity and function of marine ecosystems, as well as the services they provide to society. Thus, understanding how future oceans will function in the face of OA represents one of the major challenges and needs for marine science and management. However, most of the studies to date on OA have consisted of short- to medium- timescale laboratory experiments of single species exposed in isolation to OA. Consequently, our understanding and ability to predict the impacts of OA at the community and ecosystem levels are extremely limited. There is, therefore, a great need for empirical investigations of the long-term effects of OA on marine ecosystems exposed to high pCO2, as found around naturally acidified systems. To fill the remaining knowledge gap of the emergent effects of OA on coastal marine ecosystems, I will adopt a multidisciplinary perspective by integrating three novel approaches: 1) functional-community level studies in natural CO2 vent systems; 2) use of newly developed multi-stressors experimental FOCE systems; and 3) genomic studies of the adaptive capacity of marine species to OA. Moreover, we will use virtual reality to increase public understanding of OA. This research, based on innovative and high-level training, is expected to generate a better understanding and ability to assess marine functional biodiversity vulnerability. Future4Oceans has a strong link to management and policy advice at EU and international levels. It directly addresses the H2020 Work Programme priorities of climate action and sustainable environment. This project will not only reinforce, extend, and diversify the scientific expertise of the fellow by facilitating the development of methodological skills but propel her career towards scientific independence and professional maturity.

Plastic debris contamination is a growing environmental concern in marine habitats. Large plastic objects break-up over time to create micro- and nano- particles, collectively called microplastics (MP), which account for the overwhelming majority of plastic particles in the sea. Little is known about the impacts of MP on wildlife or humans and this presents an important research priority. Several studies have demonstrated that MP can affect sea life negatively. Amongst these, they have been reported affecting development (causing malformations, delayed growth and increased death rates). These developmental effects have never been characterised, and their molecular basis remains unknown. Developmental defects may impact population survival by decreasing the number of individuals, or their fitness, in range of marine organisms. This pioneering project will identify the effects of MP exposure in the development of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, bridging interests for ecology, toxicology, developmental biology and aquaculture. I will characterise the developmental morphological malformations caused by MP and their underlying genetic mechanisms. This Fellowship will provide an excellent opportunity to complement my strong background in genetics and molecular and developmental biology and expertise in ecotoxicology and microplastic pollution with transcriptomic analysis and the deep understanding of this model organism for development and toxicology under the supervision of Dr. Arnone, a world leading expert in the field. This will provide me with a firm skill set and knowledge to further my research career. The knowledge and expertise I will acquire in the Arnone lab, together with being hosted by a supportive and acclaimed institution, and the prestige of the MSCA fellowship, will allow me to open a unique and timely line of research and will be crucial for my transition into an independent European researcher.