Master or Bachelor Thesis

Introduction‍

Heavy metal pollution is an increasing concern in the northern Norwegian fjords. The rapid  growth of aquaculture activities and extensive operations within these fjord systems, combined  with eutrophication, wastewater discharge, and mining, contribute to the accumulation of  metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in the marine  environment. Marine organisms, including seaweed, foraminifera, and fish, absorb these  metals, impacting both ecosystem health and the safety of marine products used in food,  cosmetics, and other industries. While the overall presence of heavy metals is monitored on  larger scales, small-scale variations in their accumulation within marine species are often  overlooked, despite being crucial for local ecosystem health and resource management. 

Methodology ‍

The study will focus on locations around Fugløy and Våg Sandhornøy (Gildeskål) in northern Norway. These locations  will include sheltered areas with island systems and dynamic current patterns that may influence  metal dispersion. Proximity to potential pollution sources, such as aquaculture operations and  coastal industries, will also be considered. The key indicator species for this study is A.  nodosum, which occurs in the intertidal zone across latitudes 41.3–69.7°N. This species can  live for up to 17 years, allowing for the accumulation of heavy metals over time, thus making  Ascophyllum nodosum an ideal indicator species.  Sampling will follow a small-scale protocol as outlined by Haug et al. (1974), utilizing atomic  absorption spectroscopy (AAS) for analysis.
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Objectives:

• To assess heavy metal concentrations in key species (Ascophyllum nodosum) at  different micro-locations within fjords and coastal areas that are sheltered, influenced  by island systems, and subject to complex current patterns. 
• To provide recommendations for safe cultivation and harvesting practices in these regions, supporting the sustainable use of marine resources for food and other products.

Candidate Attributes:

• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, persistent, and inquisitive.
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Requirements:

• Enrolled in a relevant Master's or Bachelor's program.
• Able to spend a minimum of 4 weeks on-site at Sandhornøya for sampling and literature research.
• No prior seaweed/aquaculture experience is needed, but valued.
• Prior experience with chemical analysis/lab work is highly valued.

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Apply at kelpinor.no/apply or contact lydia.schmidt@kelpinor.no for inquiries.