MARUM Research Academy
Julia Rücker
Research placement at the University of Derby, England, from 14th November until 19th December 2025
My doctoral research focuses on the effects of different sunscreen formulations and ingredients on coral reef organisms, with a particular emphasis on the ecophysiology of both soft and hard corals. The project integrates laboratory experiments with the development of methodologies designed to assess the ecotoxicological effects of frequently utilised UV filters and other components of sunscreens. A central objective is to develop standardised testing protocols to evaluate the safety of sunscreens for coral ecosystems and to identify ingredients that are either harmful or more environmentally sustainable.
I travelled to Derby to collaborate with Triona Barker on our closely related research projects. Our complementary approaches significantly advanced our shared research objectives. Together, we conducted experiments to elucidate the wash-off potential of selected sunscreen formulations. This methodological work contributes to a more comprehensive assessment of the potential environmental impacts of sunscreen products.
I departed Bremen on 14th November and travelled to Derby via Birmingham by train. Upon arrival, I was welcomed by Triona, with whom I collaborated over the following five weeks. The first weekend was dedicated to finalising experimental plans and familiarising myself with the city.
Derby Market Place is decorated with some Christmas lights.
Front of the main entrance of Derby University
On Monday, we visited the University of Derby for the first time, where I was introduced to the research group and gained insight into academic life in a foreign research environment. On Tuesday, we met with Prof. Dr. Michael Sweet, Head of the Marine Ecology Department, who acted as my host supervisor during the stay. During this meeting, we discussed experimental designs and potential future collaborations.
After a minor delay due to damaged experimental equipment, we initiated the experiments by preparing sunscreen calibration curves, then proceeded to the main experimental phase. The daily experimental procedures were kept consistent to ensure reproducibility across multiple replicates.
The outcome of this collaboration is a joint study comparing the wash-off behaviour of three sunscreen products across different substrates, including human skin, synthetic leather, chamois (goat skin), and tattoo skin. Sunscreens were applied with varying soaking times, and UV was analysed in the resulting water samples using UV-vis spectrophotometry to quantify sunscreen concentrations.
In addition to the laboratory work, I attended the Reef Conservation UK (RCUK) Conference in Wales together with two international colleagues and Prof. Dr. Michael Sweet. The conference included a workshop led by Prof. Sweet and several engaging presentations on coral reef research, offering valuable networking opportunities.
Following the conference, Triona and I spent a further two weeks completing the experimental work.
Overall, I am very grateful for the opportunity to conduct research in Derby. This stay contributed substantially to my scientific development, particularly in terms of interdisciplinary collaboration, problem-solving, and independence in an international research setting.
Me, conducting the sample analysis with the UV Spectrophotometer
Acknowledgements
I would like to sincerely thank my primary supervisor, Prof. Dr. Christian Wild, for facilitating my visit and establishing the initial contact with Prof. Dr. Michael Sweet. I am also grateful to Prof. Dr. Michael Sweet for inviting me to Derby and supporting our collaborative research. Special thanks go to Triona Barker for her warm welcome and excellent collaboration at the Aquatic Research Facility and chemistry laboratories, as well as to all colleagues in the research group for their support and collegial atmosphere. I would also like to thank the MARUM Research Academy for funding this travel and covering the associated flight and travel expenses.