My love for the ocean began at a very young age, during a visit to the beach with my father. I still remember standing at the shore, completely in awe of the vast, endless blue stretching beyond the horizon. That moment sparked a deep curiosity in me—a need to understand what lay beneath the waves. Over time, that childhood wonder grew into a genuine passion for science.

As an undergraduate student at Mar Ivanios College, I found myself drawn more and more to biology. It wasn’t just about textbooks and exams—learning about life in all its forms felt exciting and meaningful. My fascination deepened during my postgraduate studies in the Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries. Here, I was introduced to the complex and beautiful world of aquatic habitats, and I realized I had found my true calling in marine science.

But it was during my PhD that my relationship with science truly matured. I focused my research on molecular systematics, specifically studying a group of soft bodied, often brightly colored marine creatures known as opisthobranchs—commonly referred to as sea slugs. These animals may seem small and delicate, but they play fascinating roles in marine ecosystems and hold many evolutionary secrets.

Through my work, I combined classical taxonomy with modern molecular biology techniques to better understand the diversity and evolutionary relationships of sea slugs. Every specimen I studied, every sequence I analyzed, brought me closer to answering big scientific questions about how species evolve and adapt in the ever changing marine environment. It was challenging, detail oriented work, but also incredibly rewarding.

My PhD journey wasn’t just about research—it was about deepening my respect for the ocean and the life it holds. It taught me patience, precision, and a profound appreciation for the hidden layers of nature. Today, my commitment to marine science is stronger than ever, and I continue to be inspired by the mysteries of the sea that first captivated me as a child.