ECR Spotlight is a series of interviews with early-career authors from a selection of papers published in Journal of Experimental Biology and aims to promote not only the diversity of early-career researchers (ECRs) working in experimental biology but also the huge variety of animals and physiological systems that are essential for the ‘comparative’ approach. Francisco Márquez-Borrás is an author on ‘ Long-term study of the combined effects of ocean acidification and warming on the mottled brittle star, Ophionereis fasciata , published in JEB. Francisco conducted the research described in this article while a PhD student in Mary Sewell's lab at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. Francisco is now a Senior marine technician in the lab of Mary Sewell at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, investigating the ecophysiology of marine invertebrates.

Francisco Márquez-Borrás

How did you become interested in biology?

My interest in biology developed from a deep curiosity about the natural world and an enjoyment of asking questions. I have always loved exploring nature, but it wasn't until I experienced the underwater world through snorkeling and diving that I realized I wanted to blend these two passions. Witnessing the complexity of marine life beneath the surface ignited a desire to understand more about how organisms function, evolve and interact in their environments.

This fascination led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in biology, where I found that the more I learned about different species and ecosystems, the more questions arose. Every new discovery opened the door to even more mysteries, fueling my excitement for research and exploration. Whether studying the intricate relationships between species or diving deeper into the molecular mechanisms that drive life, I realized biology offers an endless pursuit of knowledge, and that the continual process of discovery is what keeps me captivated.

Describe your scientific journey and your current research focus

My scientific journey has been shaped by a diverse array of experiences, primarily centered around marine invertebrates, particularly echinoderms. Early on, I explored their taxonomy, biodiversity and ecophysiology, which gave me a deeper understanding of their role in marine ecosystems. My work in biodiversity surveys has allowed me to assess species richness and contribute to studies on ecosystem health, while my research in ecophysiology has focused on how these organisms adapt to environmental stressors.

During my MSc, I expanded my research interests by working with cave fauna, focusing on their unique adaptations to extreme and isolated environments. The organisms in these ecosystems have evolved fascinating traits to survive in the darkness and nutrient-poor conditions, and studying their morphology and physiology further fueled my passion for understanding adaptation. Currently, my research focus remains on unraveling how environmental changes impact biodiversity, with a particular interest in the ecophysiological responses.

How would you explain the main findings of your paper to a member of the public?

Our study looked at how climate change, particularly warmer oceans and more acidic waters, is affecting a type of marine animal called brittle stars. These creatures are important for the health of ocean ecosystems, but they are under stress from the changing environment. We ran a long-term experiment to see how these animals responded to both warmer temperatures and more acidic waters.

We found that when the water got too warm, the brittle stars struggled to survive, grow and heal from injuries because they had to use so much energy just to cope with the heat. The acidity of the water had a smaller effect but did change how they breathe and build their skeletons. Interestingly, when the ocean became both warmer and more acidic at the same time, the brittle stars’ responses became much more complicated, showing that these animals face big challenges in a changing ocean.

This study highlights that brittle stars, which have been less studied than other marine animals like sea urchins, are a great model to understand the effects of climate change. They are found in many different parts of the world and can regenerate their arms, making it easier to study how they grow and adapt under stress. Our work fills a gap in understanding how lesser-known species, like brittle stars, are impacted by these changes, and shows that they can help us learn more about the future of marine life in a rapidly changing ocean.

Ophionereis fasciata with a ragged disc, a result of stress in response to a changing ocean.

Ophionereis fasciata with a ragged disc, a result of stress in response to a changing ocean.

What do you enjoy most about research, and why?

What I enjoy most about research is the variety of experiences it offers, each with its own rewarding moments. Whether I'm diving to collect data or specimens, running experiments at marine facilities, or analyzing samples in the lab, each step brings excitement and a sense of discovery. Diving in particular allows me to directly interact with the environment I'm studying, which deepens my connection to the natural world.

I also love the challenge of piecing together information to understand ongoing phenomena. Analyzing results and uncovering patterns is like solving a puzzle, and the sense of accomplishment when I finally understand how something works is incredibly fulfilling. Research keeps me curious, and every new discovery opens the door to more questions, keeping the process dynamic and exciting. It's this constant cycle of learning and exploration that makes research so enjoyable for me.

Do you have a top tip for others just starting out at your career stage?

My top tip for anyone starting out in research is to embrace the idea that you shouldn't be discouraged by outcomes beyond your control. In research, as in life, things often don't go as planned. Experiments may fail, results may be unexpected, and sometimes things just won't work out the way you hoped. But remember, the key is to focus on what you can control – your effort, your preparation and your response to setbacks. Unexpected outcomes aren't failures; they are opportunities to learn, adapt and refine your approach. By accepting this, you'll find resilience and clarity in your research journey. So, do your best with what's within your grasp, stay patient, and view obstacles as stepping stones to growth and new discoveries.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love diving and swimming, as they allow me to connect with the underwater world and enjoy the beauty of nature. Traveling is another passion of mine; it gives me the chance to explore new places, cultures and experiences, enriching my understanding of the world. I also cherish spending quality time with family and friends, whether it's sharing meals, enjoying outdoor activities, or just having good conversations. Additionally, I'm a big fan of football and sports in general. Playing football is a great way to stay active and unwind, while watching games brings excitement and camaraderie, especially when enjoyed with friends.

Francisco Márquez-Borrás's contact details: School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.

E-mail: [email protected]

Márquez-Borrás
,
F.
and
Sewell
,
M. A.
(
2024
).
Long-term study of the combined effects of ocean acidification and warming on the mottled brittle star, Ophionereis fasciata
.
J. Exp. Biol.
227
,
jeb249426
.