Patrick Reis Santos

Dr. Patrick Reis Santos is a Grant-Funded Researcher (B) in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Adelaide. His research focuses on marine ecology, fisheries conservation, and the impacts of contaminants like microplastics and pharmaceuticals on marine ecosystems. He employs techniques such as otolith chemistry, stable isotopes, and natural tags to study fish population connectivity, seafood provenance, and environmental changes. Dr. Santos collaborates with industry and government agencies to advance sustainable seafood practices and mitigate plastic pollution. His work also addresses emerging contaminants, including their effects on fish biology and human health through seafood consumption.

Recent research trends include analyzing microplastic contamination in fish tissues, developing methods to trace seafood origins, and assessing climate-driven shifts in fish populations. His publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches to marine conservation, combining ecology, chemistry, and policy. Dr. Santos is actively engaged in field manuals for microplastic sampling and advocating for standardized monitoring practices to address global marine challenges.

He supervises students in Masters and PhD programs, focusing on fisheries management, environmental toxicology, and marine policy. His work contributes to broader initiatives like Australia’s marine conservation strategies and international efforts to combat plastic pollution.