Professor Paulo Prodohl is a lecturer and head of the fish genetic lab within The School of Biological Sciences and The Institute for Global Food Security.

Career Path and Advice

Tell us about your research and how your career has progressed?

My research focuses on how evolution shapes the diversity of life and how we can use this knowledge to protect species. I have been studying the genetics of trout, salmon, char, lobsters, sharks, and other species to understand how they adapt to their environments and respond to climate change and habitat loss. By looking at how genetic diversity changes over time and space, my goal is to help develop effective conservation and management strategies to support healthy ecosystems. As my career progresses, I stay committed to using the latest science to tackle the challenges of fisheries management and conservation in an evolving world.

What do you find most rewarding about your work?

I love the constant discovery and new challenges in my work. There’s always something new to explore, and each answer often leads to more questions, keeping things exciting and pushing me to keep learning. I also enjoy working with colleagues, students, and postdocs. Teaching them and learning from them. It’s inspiring to share knowledge and see others grow. Most of all, knowing my work helps protect biodiversity and support healthy ecosystems for the future makes it all worthwhile.

What advice do you have for an aspiring individual hoping to pursue a career in your field?

Stay curious and open to new challenges. This field is always evolving, with new things to learn and discover. Don’t be afraid to take unexpected paths. Some of the best discoveries come from asking different questions. Be patient and flexible, as there will be setbacks, but these are chances to learn and grow. Most importantly, remember that your work can make a real difference in protecting our planet’s biodiversity, which makes it all worthwhile.

About Paulo

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself?

I love anything to do with water. Whether it’s swimming, free diving, scuba diving, sailing, or fishing, I’m in! I’m also really into keeping aquariums and enjoy spending time in nature. I’m a dog person through and through and, when I’m not outdoors, I’m usually reading a sci-fi book. I also love fixing things, whether it’s electronics or mechanics; I enjoy figuring out how things work and getting them running again.

What is the best advice you have received or quote that you live by?

"Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution." - Theodosius Dobzhansky

"The only way to discover the limits of the possible is to go beyond them into the impossible." – Arthur C. Clarke

Who inspires you?

My two mentors and colleagues, Andy Ferguson and John Taggart, have guided me in my career, and for that, I’m forever grateful. Their influence has shaped how I approach research and learning.