Dr Yussi Palacios

With over a decade of research experience in the academia, I have a deep understanding of nutrient dynamics, water quality and microalgal physiology. My have knowledge of what causes nutrient and faecal pollution in water systems, as well as the physiological responses of microalgae to environmental changes - including growth, photosynthesis and molecular composition. I hold a PhD in Science from Monash University, where I studied the optimisation of light conditions to enhance microalgal photosynthetic efficiency and growth. This included investigating the assimilation of nitrogen sources, the role of CO2, and the influence of temperature on metabolic performance. Following my PhD, I joined the Water Engineering Group within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering from Monash University as a postdoctoral researcher. There, I have expanded my research expertise, including stormwater management and the monitoring of surface and groundwater quality. My work involves assessing nutrient loading, microbial contamination. This interdisciplinary background allows me to bridge algal physiology with applied water quality management. I am particularly interested in understanding how environmental stressors - such as nutrient enrichment and temperature shifts influence harmful algal bloom formation and persistence.