Michele Stanley

Michele Stanley is a Professor and interim Associate Director for Science, Enterprise, and Innovation at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) within the University of the Highlands and Islands. She leads research in marine biotechnology, focusing on phycology (study of algae) with applications in bioenergy and sustainable development. Her work bridges fundamental biology and commercial innovation, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Since joining SAMS in 2006, she has secured 30+ grants and authored 60+ publications (40 peer-reviewed). Her research includes genome analysis of diatoms, lipid production in microalgae, and macroalgal cultivation’s environmental impacts. She led projects like BioMara and EnAlgae, investigating seaweed biomass for biofuels and biorefinery processes.

Her recent studies address climate change resilience in seaweed aquaculture and bioenergy systems. She collaborates internationally and advises on UK energy policy through roles like EPSRC Energy Strategic Advisory Team member. Media engagements include discussions on bioeconomy and climate-friendly foods.

Key impacts include advancing algal-based bioprocesses (e.g., γ-PGA production) and mitigating livestock emissions via seaweed. She oversees the SAMS UHI Aquaculture Research Network and Energy Innovation Team, fostering interdisciplinary marine science.