Anni Djurhuus

Anni Djurhuus is an Associate Professor in Biology and Faculty Research Leader at the Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Faroe Islands. She holds a PhD from the University of Oxford and teaches courses in general biology, microbiology, climate change, field courses, bioinformatics, and statistics.

Her academic qualifications include:

• PhD in Zoology from the University of Oxford (2015)
• Master's in Zoology from the University of Oxford (2012)
• Bachelor's from the University of the Faroe Islands (2011)

Anni's primary research focuses on conservation and climate change, particularly biodiversity changes in natural environments ranging from hydrothermal vents to deep-sea ecosystems. Her current projects emphasize environmental DNA (eDNA) for biodiversity assessment on the Faroe Shelf, viral fluctuations, sewage contamination, and the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON). She aims to develop innovative tools for eDNA analysis to map ecosystem players, especially viruses and microbes, to support conservation efforts.

Her recent publications (2023-2024) reflect a strong emphasis on biodiversity conservation through eDNA methodologies, marine ecosystem monitoring, and environmental health. Key themes include sustainable use of nature, antibiotic resistance in sewage, and impacts of aquaculture on microbial communities. These works integrate field studies in the Faroe Islands with broader implications for climate change adaptation and marine policy.

Anni Djurhuus serves as Principal Investigator (PI) on multiple research projects including the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON), VIR-MAM (viral fluctuations on the Faroe Shelf), and studies on antibiotic resistance in sewage. She also collaborates as Co-I on international projects such as IEA-NOR for ecosystem assessment in the Norwegian Sea. Her work attracts funding for biodiversity conservation and environmental monitoring in the North Atlantic.

As Faculty Research Leader, she leads a research group focused on molecular ecology and environmental monitoring at the University of the Faroe Islands. Her team collaborates with international networks including the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) and engages in cross-disciplinary projects addressing climate change impacts on marine ecosystems.