I’m a marine ecologist by training, holding a Master of Science from the University of Bremen, and the Centre for tropical marine ecology there. The role of healthy oceans for coastal communities has been at the focus of my work since I did my MSc field studies in a Sri Lankan fishing village.

At GRID-Arendal, I lead our Programme on Ecosystems, Economies and Sustainable Development, supporting a holistic approach that recognises the essential role of nature in economic and social development. I’m involved in or lead a number of projects which use the sharing of knowledge on good practice, the integration of the variety of ocean actor interests, and the understanding of the values of ecosystem services towards achieving equitable and sustainable development, and human well-being.

Before I’ve started working at GRID-Arendal in 2011, I worked for WWF Germany on High Seas conservation.