MARRES graduates: three paths, one common mission
- Education
- Sustainable Development
- Alumni
Published on June 23, 2025
–
Updated on June 23, 2025
Dates
on the June 18, 2025
Discover the stories of Camille Boucaud, Florina Jacob and Lionel Pourchier, three alumni of the MARRES program, each illustrating in a unique way how science, community involvement and innovation can contribute to marine conservation.
Three visions, one ambition
We come from different backgrounds, but we share a common goal: protecting the oceans. Whether pushing back the frontiers of academic research, innovating in entrepreneurship to generate concrete environmental impact, or piloting marine conservation programs directly on the ground with local communities, we firmly believe in the power of collective action. MARRES has shown us that there is no single path to changing the world. On the contrary, it is our multiple trajectories, which intersect and complement each other, that create the most sustainable and innovative solutions.
Camille, Florina, Lionel
Find out more about MSc MARRES
Camille BOUCAUD
"I've always been fascinated by marine biology, and my adventure with MARRES truly marked a turning point in my career. "
Originally from France, I graduated in 2023, and did my master thesis work at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, which was a revelation. It was there that I discovered my passion for cephalopods, those fascinating marine creatures. Today, I'm pursuing a PhD in microbiology, genetics and immunology at Michigan State University, where I'm focusing on the symbiosis between the Hawaiian bobtail squid and the bioluminescent bacterium Vibrio fischeri. My work focuses on a protein, galaxin, which may facilitate the interaction between microorganisms and their host. Using advanced genetic engineering technologies and microbiological tests, I hope to provide answers to this biological mystery. I'm delighted that the partnership with Woods Hole has remained active, enabling other MARRES students to immerse themselves in this unique research environment.
Originally from France, I graduated in 2023, and did my master thesis work at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, which was a revelation. It was there that I discovered my passion for cephalopods, those fascinating marine creatures. Today, I'm pursuing a PhD in microbiology, genetics and immunology at Michigan State University, where I'm focusing on the symbiosis between the Hawaiian bobtail squid and the bioluminescent bacterium Vibrio fischeri. My work focuses on a protein, galaxin, which may facilitate the interaction between microorganisms and their host. Using advanced genetic engineering technologies and microbiological tests, I hope to provide answers to this biological mystery. I'm delighted that the partnership with Woods Hole has remained active, enabling other MARRES students to immerse themselves in this unique research environment.
Florina JACOB
"For me, marine conservation can't happen without deep engagement with local communities. "
Originally from Colombia and valedictorian of the class of 2021, I joined the NGO Coral Guardian as scientific and field project manager after my master's thesis, where I analyzed the scientific and socio-economic data collected by the association. Today, I work between France, Indonesia - where the NGO started its projects - and Spain, and am actively involved in coral reef protection and restoration. My role is not limited to science; it also encompasses the sustainable development of local communities. I support fishermen and coastal populations in adopting more sustainable practices, providing them with the tools and knowledge to protect and restore their environment. It is this integrated approach linking conservation and human development, promoted by MARRES, that motivates me every day to continue my commitment to Coral Guardian.
Originally from Colombia and valedictorian of the class of 2021, I joined the NGO Coral Guardian as scientific and field project manager after my master's thesis, where I analyzed the scientific and socio-economic data collected by the association. Today, I work between France, Indonesia - where the NGO started its projects - and Spain, and am actively involved in coral reef protection and restoration. My role is not limited to science; it also encompasses the sustainable development of local communities. I support fishermen and coastal populations in adopting more sustainable practices, providing them with the tools and knowledge to protect and restore their environment. It is this integrated approach linking conservation and human development, promoted by MARRES, that motivates me every day to continue my commitment to Coral Guardian.
Lionel POURCHIER
"MARRES has enabled me to transform my passion for marine conservation into a real entrepreneurial project. "
With an initial background in nuclear engineering, I changed course after graduating from MARRES in 2020. I initially co-founded Blue Leaf Conservation, but very quickly realized that the economic ecosystem wasn't ready. So I set up EverSea, an innovative company that helps finance marine conservation projects by connecting them with private investors. EverSea relies on technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to scientifically assess the impact of projects on biodiversity and climate. What I'm particularly proud of today is continuing to work with MARRES. I regularly take on students for internships or theses, as is currently the case with David Broussard, a PhD student in marine ecology (ECOSEAS laboratory) and economics (GREDEG laboratory). This connection with MARRES remains a source of inspiration and mutual support.
With an initial background in nuclear engineering, I changed course after graduating from MARRES in 2020. I initially co-founded Blue Leaf Conservation, but very quickly realized that the economic ecosystem wasn't ready. So I set up EverSea, an innovative company that helps finance marine conservation projects by connecting them with private investors. EverSea relies on technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to scientifically assess the impact of projects on biodiversity and climate. What I'm particularly proud of today is continuing to work with MARRES. I regularly take on students for internships or theses, as is currently the case with David Broussard, a PhD student in marine ecology (ECOSEAS laboratory) and economics (GREDEG laboratory). This connection with MARRES remains a source of inspiration and mutual support.
