Rui Santos

Rui Santos is a University Professor and Researcher at the University of Algarve (UALG), affiliated with the Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR) on the Gamelas Campus. As the leader of the Marine Plant Ecology Research Group, his work focuses on coastal ecosystems, seagrass conservation, blue carbon dynamics, and invasive species management. His research spans marine ecology, environmental management, and climate change mitigation. Key projects include 'Blue Forests Education,' 'SeagHorse,' and 'ALGARVE BLUE CARBON,' addressing seagrass restoration, ecosystem services valuation, and carbon sequestration. Rui collaborates internationally, contributing to databases like EURO-CARBON and studies on mangrove dieback and seaweed invasions. He also engages in educational initiatives like the EDUCOAST Summer Course.

His research integrates fieldwork, experimental studies, and citizen science to address ecological challenges in coastal zones. Recent projects highlight the importance of coralline algae in carbon cycles and the impacts of climate change on marine species. Collaborations include work on nutrient dynamics in invasive species and the development of tools for monitoring coastal ecosystems.