Kim Last

Kim Last is a Doctor Marine Biologist at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), part of the University of the Highlands and Islands. As Principal Investigator on the EU FP7-funded CACHE project (2013-2017) and leader of commercial research projects totaling over £600K, Dr. Last maintains an active research program with significant contributions to marine science, evidenced by an h-index of 24 and 1,948 citations.

Dr. Last's research centers on chronobiology (how marine animals tell time) and the behavioral and physiological impacts of human activities on marine organisms. Their work spans from studying worms in estuaries to zooplankton across the Arctic Ocean, revealing how marine species maintain 'an uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right time.' A practical scientist, Dr. Last develops innovative technologies for hostile environments, most notably the Vortex Resuspension Tank (VORTs) for simulating sediment plumes.

• Marine Environmental Impact Assessment
• Chronobiology and Animal Behavior
• Arctic Ocean Ecology
• Zooplankton Dynamics
• Marine Toxicology
• Experimental Mesocosm Development

Recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate evolving research trends toward addressing critical aquaculture challenges (particularly sea lice management), physiological responses to environmental stressors, and Arctic ecosystem dynamics. This work bridges fundamental chronobiological research with practical applications for the marine aggregate industry and nuclear power development.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Best Student Presentation (1999)
• Best Student Speaker (1998)
• Commendation poster prize (2006)

Dr. Last has secured substantial research funding through commercial projects assessing anthropogenic sediment impacts, seawater chlorination effects, and blue mussel responses. With five supervised students and extensive public engagement (15 recorded activities including festivals, school workshops, and media contributions), Dr. Last actively translates research into practical applications and public understanding. The VORT mesocosm system has become a cornerstone for multiple environmental impact studies.

Collaborating internationally, Dr. Last's research contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Life Below Water (SDG 14) and Climate Action (SDG 13), addressing critical environmental challenges through both fundamental and applied marine science.