Meet PhD student Manuela Seehauser

Hi Manuela! Who are you, and what is your research about?

"My name is Manuela Seehauser, and I am a microbiologist with a deep fascination for microbes and their impact on our daily lives, especially through their production of secondary metabolites. Originally from Italy, I relocated to Sweden almost a year ago to pursue my PhD in Microbial Ecology. My current research centres on cyanobacterial blooms in the Baltic Sea, with a particular focus on the cyanotoxins they produce. I aim to unravel why and under what conditions cyanobacteria produce toxins, contributing to a better understanding of their ecological and societal impacts."

Could you give us a short overview of your project – its main objectives and the outcomes you aim to achieve?

"The overarching goal of my PhD project is to explore the ecology of cyanotoxin production in the Baltic Sea and assess its implications for aquaculture—particularly mussel farming—under current and future climate scenarios. Specifically, I aim to determine the environmental factors driving cyanotoxin production, identify periods when toxins accumulate in aquaculture seafood, and develop predictive tools to manage these risks. Building on the knowledge about the ecology of cyanobacteria in the Baltic Sea, we aim to develop an early warning system for cyanotoxins. This system should help stakeholders, such as mussel farmers, avoid periods of high toxin concentrations, reduce risks to their operations, and ensure safe aquaculture practices."

In your view, what are the key challenges and opportunities in your research?

"One of my research's primary challenges is studying the Baltic Sea's complex and dynamic ecosystem. Untangling the intricate web of factors—abiotic and biotic, external and internal—that shape this ecosystem can feel like piecing together a vast puzzle. It requires patience, precision, and a step-by-step approach to uncover the full picture. On the other hand, one of the key opportunities is the interdisciplinary nature of my research, which combines marine sciences, microbiology, ecology and toxicology. Collaborating with stakeholders is another significant advantage. Their practical expertise guides my research towards real-world applications and ensures it addresses pressing societal and industry needs. Seeing how my work directly benefits people motivates me to keep moving forward."

How do you hope your research will contribute to the broader field or society?

"I hope my research contributes to developing early monitoring systems for cyanotoxins. These systems could enable stakeholders to predict periods of high toxin loads, allowing them to adapt their aquaculture practices and management strategies to reduce financial losses and ensure food safety. By providing tools to manage these risks, I aim to make aquaculture more attractive, safe, and sustainable, benefiting not only individual farmers but society as a whole."