BIO
About
E.Symigdalas
I'm a passionate marine scientist with a focus on reef ecology and the sustainable management of marine environments. My journey began at the University of Portsmouth, where I delved into the intricacies of biology. Following this, I honed my expertise in Marine Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, specializing in reef ecosystems across the Indo-Pacific, Pacific Oceans, and the Mediterranean.
My extensive fieldwork experience includes underwater data collection and survey management, allowing me to contribute valuable insights into biodiversity and population dynamics in marine organisms. My efforts have primarily revolved around comparing protected and non-protected marine areas to advocate for the establishment and development of marine parks and protected regions.
An ardent advocate for environmental conservation, I've led diverse projects across Greece as a Project Manager at Greek Eco Projec. As a certified professional and scientific diver, I've actively promoted responsible diving practices and have been recognized as a Reefcheck Ecodiver by Reefcheck Worldwide.
My recent endeavors in maritime environmental management, underscored by a certification from Lloyd’s Maritime Academy, reflect my commitment to fostering sustainable practices in the shipping industry. Leveraging my background, I aspire to contribute to the transformation of maritime transportation toward a more eco-conscious and efficient paradigm as an Environmental Officer.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I indulge in underwater photography and various water sports, capturing the beauty of our oceans and promoting their preservation through visual storytelling.
Research Topics
Coral Reef Environment Autonomous Monitoring System (CREAMS) Concept Development
Dec 2019 - until today
Investigation of Marine populations’ Diversity and Abundance around Dryonissi Island, Paros, Greece
Apr 2019 – Sep 2019
Frontier Fiji Marine/ Reefcheck Coral Reef Monitoring (Assistant Research Officer)
Jun 2018 – Nov 2018
Investigation of Herbivore Marine Populations’ Diversity and Abundance at Bidong and Redang Islands, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia (April 2017-August 2017).
Apr 2017 – Aug 2017
Correlation between Posidonia sea grass and Loggerhead sea turtles nesting area choice, Kefalonia island, Greece
Jun 2015 – Sep 2015
Education
Lloyds Maritime Academy
Certificate in Maritime Environmental Management (2020)
Heriot-Watt University
Master of Science MSc Marine Sciences (2016-2017)
University Malaysia Terengganu UMT (partly enrolled)
Master of Science MSc Marine Biology (2017)
University of Portsmouth
Bachelor of Science BSc Biology (2013-2016)
Participations
Speaker at the 3rd Summer Workshop of the Hellenic Biodiversity Center. Topic: Underwater Photography (How to use our cameras correctly and how to approach marine life) (July 2021-August 2021)
Link Below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTdEAXOAUDs&t=290s&ab_channel=Biodiversitygr
Presentor at the 14th International Coral Reef Symposium 2021
Topic: Investigation of Herbivore Marine Populations' Diversity and Abundance at Bind and Redang Islands, Kuala Terengganu Malaysia and Innovative Coral Reef Monitoring Methods
Guest at the "Kalokairi Mazi" TV Show ANT1 Greek Television
Appeared on national TV as a guest for the show "Kalokairi Mazi" on ANT1 (Hosted by Nikoleta Ralli) live from Fiji islands to talk about the environmental impact of humans in the oceans and my career development until today.
Certificates
Train The Trainer since 2023
Scientific Diver. since 2016
SSI Dive Guide 2016
SSI Science of Diving 2018
PADI Rescue Diver 2015
PADI Emergency First Responder 2015
PADI Advanced Open Water Diver 2014
PADI Open Water Diver 2014
HELMEPA Associate Member since. 2020
Marine Biological Association Proffesional Member. since 2017
SEOK Hellenic Oceanographers Association Member. since 2020
Marine Conservation Society Member
REEFCHECK ECO Diver. since 2018