In a remarkable advancement for marine mammal research, Laura Rojas, a promising young scientist, has been honoured with the prestigious Best Student Poster Award at the 35th European Cetacean Society Conference held in Catania, Italy. Her groundbreaking work, titled “Inner ear of harbour porpoise using synchrotron phase-contrast imaging,” has captivated the scientific community and promises profound implications for understanding marine mammal physiology.
The award was sponsored by the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (JMSE).
Laura’s research delves into the intricate inner ear structures of harbour porpoises. By harnessing the power of synchrotron phase-contrast imaging, a cutting-edge non-destructive technique, Laura and her team have unlocked unprecedented insights into the cochlear soft tissues of these enigmatic creatures.
The findings, presented with remarkable clarity at a high spatial resolution of 2 μm voxel size, unveil both normal and altered anatomical features previously unseen. Conducted at DESY/HEREON in Hamburg, this pioneering approach marks a significant milestone in marine mammal research, offering a glimpse into the subtle nuances of their auditory systems.
Laura’s work not only sheds light on the inner workings of harbour porpoises but also holds promise for broader applications in marine mammal conservation and welfare. By detecting potential cases of hearing loss and understanding the intricate anatomy of their inner ears, scientists can develop targeted conservation strategies to safeguard these magnificent creatures for future generations.
As we celebrate Laura’s well-deserved recognition, we eagerly anticipate the ripple effects of her research across the scientific community.