ECR Spotlight – Rafael Duarte Free

Rafael Duarte

How did you become interested in biology?

My interest in biology, and especially marine life, goes back to my childhood. I was always fascinated by the ocean and the incredible diversity of life it has. But it wasn't until the end of high school that I truly saw a path to turn that passion into a career. That moment came during a trip to Angra dos Reis, a coastal city located in the Rio de Janeiro state, in Brazil, where I participated in a marine sciences course organized by my school. During the course, we explored various topics in oceanography and marine biology, with a focus on the diversity of marine organisms and the dynamics of different coastal ecosystems. It was a hands-on and eye-opening experience that left a lasting impression.

After that trip, I was no longer uncertain about what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in biology. In 2005, I began my undergraduate studies in Biological Sciences at São Paulo State University (UNESP), in São Vicente, a coastal city in the state of São Paulo, in Brazil. One of the things that drew me to this program was its strong emphasis on marine biology – students could even choose to specialize in it during the final year of the degree. That early curiosity about marine life has shaped my academic and professional journey ever since.

Describe your scientific journey and your current research focus

My journey in science began with a deep fascination for the marine life, which naturally led me to study Biological Sciences at São Paulo State University (Brazil), where I later specialized in Marine Biology. Early in my studies, I had the opportunity to spend time abroad at the University of Aveiro (Portugal). This experience introduced me to international research and sparked my interest in behavioural and evolutionary ecology.

This curiosity guided my MSc and PhD at the University of São Paulo (Brazil), supervised by Prof. Augusto Flores, where I studied the ecology of colour diversity in a small prawn species. I investigated how body colour varies across environments and how this variation relates to behaviour and survival. My research combined ecological, behavioural and physiological approaches, using image analysis, visual modelling, stable isotope analysis and experimental predation trials. During my PhD, I joined the Sensory Ecology Group led by Prof. Martin Stevens at the University of Exeter (UK), where I deepened my understanding of the links between animal coloration, perception and evolution; an experience that continues to shape my research today.

After completing my PhD in 2017, I worked as a substitute lecturer in Brazil, teaching data analysis and benthic ecology. I later returned in 2019 to research through a postdoctoral position at the Federal University of ABC, collaborating with Prof. Gustavo Dias, which also included a visiting period at the University of Exeter. During this time, I focused on colour change and camouflage in crustaceans and other marine invertebrates, particularly how predation and environmental changes, such as the spread of non-native seaweeds, can affect the behaviour and camouflage of colour-changing species.

Currently, I'm based at the University of Aveiro, working on applied projects in marine ecology and sustainable aquaculture. While my core interests remain in the ecology and physiology of animal coloration, I'm increasingly focused on how organisms respond to rapid environmental change. Going forward, I hope to continue exploring the intersections between ecology, evolution, and sensory biology, especially in the context of global change, and to contribute to research that supports both basic science and practical conservation efforts.

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

Most people know that some animals can change colour, but this ability is often associated only with a few iconic examples like chameleons or octopuses. These animals are famous for their rapid and impressive colour shifts, often used for camouflage or communication. But what many people don't realise is that colour change is much more widespread, and far more complex, than these examples suggest. In fact, many animals across a wide range of groups can change their colour, not just in seconds, but also gradually over hours, days, or even seasons. And while camouflage is one reason for these changes, it's just the tip of the iceberg. Animals also use colour change to regulate body temperature, protect against harmful UV radiation or signal to mates or rivals.

In our Review, we bring together decades of research to explain how animals change colour – from the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind these transformations to the physiological processes that control them. We also explore why colour change matters: how it helps animals survive, find mates, and adapt to changing environments. A key focus of our work is how human activities are starting to interfere with this fascinating ability. Pollution, climate change, and habitat modification can disrupt the conditions animals rely on to change colour effectively, either by affecting their internal processes or by altering the backgrounds they need to blend into.

We end by highlighting major unanswered questions and suggest ways future research could uncover how animals might continue to adapt, or struggle, in a rapidly changing world. Animal colour change is not just a visual trick, it is a vital, dynamic part of life that reveals the deep connections between biology, behaviour, and the environments we're all part of.

What do you enjoy most about research, and why?

What I enjoy most about research is the constant process of discovery as there's always something new to learn. One of the great things about research is that it involves many different stages, each with its own challenges and rewards. When I'm in the field, I get to explore beautiful landscapes and, in some lucky places, enjoy clear, warm waters. That's an incredible part of the job (especially for a marine biologist). But the excitement doesn't stop there. Once the fieldwork is done and the data is collected, the focus shifts: we start asking questions, testing hypotheses, and trying to make sense of our findings. This is when the real mental challenge begins. It's about turning fascinating observations into clear, engaging stories that can inform and inspire others. Writing up results in a way that captures the interest of readers, while staying true to the science, is difficult, but deeply rewarding when it works. To me, research is a perfect mix of curiosity, adventure and creativity. And that's what makes it so exciting.

What is the most important lesson that you have learned from your career so far?

Resilience, absolutely! One of the most important lessons I've learned is that a research career is rarely straightforward as it involves many steps, and several of them are beyond your control. Experiments can fail, sampling can be unsuccessful, funding can be uncertain, and progress is often slow. It's a path that demands patience, persistence, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. But with time, these challenges help build maturity and perspective. Despite the obstacles, the process is deeply meaningful and rewarding.