Salma Aboussalam

Affiliation:

University of Cadi Ayyad, Morocco
22 Jun 2023 to 13 Sep 2023

Research subject:

Modelling

Supervisor:

Mr Elkalay Khalid

Short cv:

I am a dedicated researcher in the field of fisheries, with a particular focus on modeling the Moroccan Mediterranean Sea using Ecopath with Ecosim. My academic journey has been driven by a passion for understanding and sustaining marine ecosystems.

My academic pursuits began with a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Biology from the Faculty of Sciences Ibn Zohr in Agadir, Morocco. Building on my strong foundation, I pursued a Master's degree in "Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development" at the Faculty of Sciences Semlalia in Marrakech, Morocco. This postgraduate experience broadened my knowledge and deepened my interest in marine ecology and the intricate relationships within aquatic trophic systems.

Eager to contribute to the field on a deeper level, I embarked on a PhD program in Natural Resources and Sustainable Development Engineering at the Laboratory of “Applied Sciences for the Environment and Sustainable Development,” School of Technology, Cadi Ayyad University in Essaouira, Morocco. My doctoral thesis titled “Socio-ecological interactions in the Moroccan aquatic trophic systems” delves into the complex interplay between human activities and marine ecosystems in the Moroccan Mediterranean Sea.

Throughout my academic journey, I have sought opportunities to expand my expertise. Recently, I had the invaluable opportunity to work alongside Ms Marian Torres, an esteemed marine ecology and modeling expert, at the Oceanographic Center of Cadiz in Spain. During this time, I was actively involved in validating and enhancing the Ecopath model of the Moroccan Mediterranean Sea ecosystem.

Continuing my quest for knowledge, I engaged in a stimulating internship at the Center of Marine Sciences alongside Mr Karim Erzini, at the University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal. During this internship, I delved into the world of modeling Moroccan Mediterranean fisheries using ecotrophic models, with a particular emphasis on using ECOPATH & ECOSIM. I was responsible for developing these models and meticulously gathering essential data and parameters to further our understanding of the region's fisheries.

As I look ahead, my passion remains steadfast in contributing to the understanding and sustainable management of marine ecosystems, especially in the context of the Moroccan Mediterranean Sea. I am eager to continue my research, exploring the dynamics of marine life and the effects of climate change on the region's rich biodiversity. My goal is to make meaningful contributions to the preservation and conservation of our oceans for generations to come.