Eliza C. HEERY

I am a marine ecologist researching ecological processes and community dynamics on urban artificial structures in coastal cities. I received my PhD from the University of Washington, where I researched biological colonization of underwater artificial structures, such as pipelines and breakwaters, as well as the use of urban debris by giant Pacific octopus. I also holds an MSc in Fisheries Science (stock assessment modelling) from Virginia Tech and a BSc in Biology from Emory University. 

As a post-doctoral researcher in EMEL, I study primary production and macroalgal dynamics on Singapore’s seawalls. I have a special affinity for filamentous algal turf, which is the dominant occupier of space on seawalls both in Singapore and in many coastal cities globally. My research emphasizes the ecological interactions between urban macroalgae and the broader biotic community, and the potential role macroalgae can play in creating more sustainable future cities and coastal defences. 

Research Interests

Urban marine ecology, climate adaptation, seaweeds, urban opportunists (synanthropes)