Yuvasri Murugasamy

Aspiring Oceanographer

Summary

Botany graduate with expertise in bioluminescent marine organisms and proven leadership skills, driven by unwavering passion, seeking MSc Oceanography admission at the University of Southampton. Skilled in research methodology, plant physiology, and marine ecosystem dynamics, I am dedicated to advancing sustainable marine biotechnology and ocean conservation.

Education

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Botany

PSG College of Arts and Science (2022 – 2025)

GPA: 92%

  • Awarded for Academic Excellence, consistently ranked 1st in the department for all three academic years
  • Relevant Coursework: Plant Diversity, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Molecular Biology, Vegetative & Reproductive Plant Biology, Genetics in Plant Breeding, Research Methodology, Taxonomy & Economic Botany, Medicinal Plant Science, Horticulture, Silviculture, Plant Metabolism, Plant Tissue Culture, Industrial Biotechnology, and Plant Ecology

Higher Secondary Education

Amrita Vidyalaya Higher Secondary School – Central Board of Secondary Education

  • Grade XII – Biology (2021 - 2022): 88%
  • Grade X – Science (2019 - 2020): 94%
  • Kho-Kho Team Captain and Disciplinary Committee member, demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and adherence to institutional discipline

Certifications

Introduction to Coral Reef Management

NOAA (December 2024)

Aquatic Mammals

The Open University (December 2024)

Paleontology: Ancient Marine Reptiles

University of Alberta, Coursera (November 2024)

Introduction to Seaweeds

University of California San Diego, Coursera (May 2024)

Oceanography: A Key to Better Understand Our World

University of Barcelona, Coursera (February 2024)

Marine Biology

American Museum of Natural History, Coursera (December 2023)

Plant Cell Bioprocessing

NPTEL (July-September 2023)

Soil and Water Conservation Engineering

NPTEL (January-April 2023)

Blogs

  • Phenomenon of Light Effects in Marine Environment
  • Commercial Use of Algae and Sea Weeds for Development of Rural Economy & Marine Ecosystem
  • Coral Reef Management and Ocean Restoration with Help of Technology
  • Marine Pollution and Algal Blooms – Destruction of Life in Water

Research Projects

Endorrhizal Fungal Symbiosis in Plant Species

The study examined AM & DSE fungal colonization patterns across multiple plant species, revealing species-specific variations in symbiotic relationships relevant to climate change adaptation.

Comparative Study of Terrestrial and Marine Plant Adaptation

Exploring Physiological & Morphological Differences in Marine Algae, focusing on adaptation mechanisms that allow marine plants to thrive in saline environments with limited light penetration.

Volunteering & Community Engagement

  • Organic Cultivation Club Assistant Head: Organized a workshop conducted by Silcal Foundation on organic farming techniques
  • Turtle Walk: Collected Olive Ridley turtle eggs and secured them in a hatchery, working with government initiatives to protect them from predators, artificial lighting, beach erosion, and human disturbances
  • Beach Clean-Up Volunteer: Participated in coastal clean-up initiatives removing marine debris to protect local shorelines and marine life

Skills

Research Methodology Data Analysis Marine Biotechnology Plant Biotechnology Environmental Impact Assessment Laboratory Techniques Spectroscopy Communication Collaboration

Research Interests

Marine Bioluminescence Oceanic Environmental Sustainability Marine Plant Ecology Conservation Nature-Inspired Technologies

Personal Statement

From my earliest memories, I have been captivated by the mysteries of marine ecosystems and the diverse life beneath the surface. This passion, along with my love for swimming, naturally led me to marine science. A pivotal moment in my journey occurred when I witnessed the decline of crocodile populations in my region due to plastic debris obstructing their respiratory passages. This distressing observation ignited my determination to tackle marine pollution and propelled me toward oceanic studies.

During my academic journey, I realized that while many scientists focus on animal physiology, few explore the physiology of coral and marine plants. This gap guided my decision to pursue undergraduate studies in Botany, which has provided a strong foundation for addressing these overlooked aspects of marine conservation.

My bachelor's program deepened my interest in coral restoration and the phenomenon of bioluminescence in marine plants. Research has shown that by 2050, microplastic and nano plastic accumulation in oceans could reach unprecedented levels, threatening algae and coral reefs—key oxygen producers whose disruption may accelerate climate change. My commitment to environmental stewardship drives me to develop innovative conservation strategies and sustainable solutions to these challenges.