Sophie Cunningham

Biography

I am currently completing a Masters degree in Tropical Marine Biology, with a particular interest in elasmobranchs, the global fin trade, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. I am especially interested in interdisciplinary work that brings together ecology and policy, and in ensuring that the knowledge and perspectives of local communities are reflected in decision-making. I am also interested in coral biology, particularly the symbiotic dynamics within the coral holobiont and how photophysiological processes shape resilience to environmental change. Alongside my studies, I am a certified Rescue Diver through PADI, and I am working towards Divemaster and Instructor qualifications. I also work as a Project Coordinator and Digitisation Technician at the UK Data Archive at the University of Essex.

Qualifications

• MSc Tropical Marine Biology University of Essex (2026)

• BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation and Ecology Bournemouth University (2023)

• FdSc Applied Animal Management and Rural Science Newcastle University (2022)