Julie Hope

Dr. Julie Hope is a Lecturer in Marine Biology at the University of St Andrews' School of Biology and an affiliate of the Scottish Oceans Institute. Her research focuses on benthic ecosystems, microplastic pollution, and sediment dynamics. She leads projects such as the 'Impact of Microplastics Pollution' (Marine March Initiative, 2024–2025) and 'Benthic Responses to Extreme Weather Events' (Carnegie Trust, 2024–2025), and has secured grants including a BBSRC award (2023).

Her work examines how microplastics affect coastal sediments, biofilm dynamics, and ecosystem function. She has supervised PhD students Tamara Darbar, Cathilyn McIntosh, and Michael Vail. Julie’s research integrates field and laboratory studies, addressing topics like biostabilization processes, hydro-climate impacts, and the ecological consequences of microplastic contamination.

Key projects include analyzing microplastic distribution in estuaries, modeling bedform dynamics in mixed sediments, and exploring diatom biofilm engineering. Her contributions advance marine conservation, sedimentology, and climate change adaptation strategies.