Droevendaalsesteeg 10
6708 PB Wageningen
The Netherlands
Belén Franco-Cisterna
About
I am a marine biologist investigating the importance and function of phytoplankton and zooplankton for carbon sequestration in aquatic ecosystems
Biography
I am an enthusiastic scientist focused on the study of plankton biogeochemistry, ecology, and diversity. I got my bachelor's in Marine Biology and master's in Oceanography at the University of Concepción (Chile), and recently got my Ph.D. in Biology at the University of Southern Denmark (Denmark).
My research aims to understand the function of phytoplankton and zooplankton in carbon and nitrogen cycling. Specifically, through the production of sinking particles and their interaction with microorganisms. My research has been based on field and experimental work in the Southeast Pacific Ocean, Southwest Atlantic Ocean, and the Subarctic.
At NIOO, I am currently investigating the role of phytoplankton in carbon sequestration in shallow lakes.
Research Expertise
Biogeochemistry Carbon Carbon sequestration Nitrogen Nutrient cycling Phytoplankton ZooplanktonFeatured in
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Wageningen Campus Student Expedition - visit to NIOO
Expect a short tour to NIOO’s highlights! From the green(blue) roof to the golden toilet of the building, and from the research on bluegreen algae to animal personality or the living soil.
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Exposition 'Augmented Ecofeminisms: Climate, Water and Women'
This month at NIOO: the art exhibition 'Augmented Ecofeminisms: Climate, Water, and Women'. This exhibition illustrates how the problems associated with climate change differentially affect women in many parts of the world.
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IDEA committee: working on diversity, inclusion, equity and accessibility
IDEA stands for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility: important subjects for a research institute. At NIOO, we now have a special IDEA committee dedicated to this subject and taking concrete actions.