
EAG Sponsored Student Giulia Molina attends the PO2 workshop in Bristol

My name is Giulia Molina and I am a PhD candidate at the University of Algarve. Originally from Brazil, I graduated in Oceanography from the University of the State of Rio de Janeiro and completed a Master’s in Science at the Oceanography Institute of the University of São Paulo. I have always been passionate about the ocean, and since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by small shells. When I discovered paleoceanography, it immediately called my attention.
During my undergraduate studies, I started working with benthic foraminifera, which led to an internship at the University of Plymouth. That experience confirmed my desire to pursue an academic career and work in an international environment. Currently, my PhD research focuses on reconstructing oxygen levels, productivity, and bottom current velocity during the Early to Middle Pleistocene Transition in the Gulf of Cadiz, using benthic foraminifera as a primary tool. Initially, I studied the benthic fauna, but I later expanded my research to include geochemical analyses of their shells and planktonic foraminifera as well. Now, as I enter the final year of my PhD, I am eager and optimistic about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
In November 2024, I participated in a short workshop held in Bristol, UK, entitled “Constraining changes in ocean oxygenation during the late Quaternary,” organized by Past Global Changes (PAGES). The main objective of this workshop were to move towards a comprehensive synthesis of global ocean oxygenation and oxygen distribution on glacial-interglacial timescales during the late Quaternary, including a critical assessment and comparison of different proxy and model approaches.
Attending the PO2 workshop in Bristol in November was a significant milestone in my PhD journey. At the end of my third year, it was the perfect time to engage with experts in my field. Many renowned researchers in geochemistry were present, giving me the opportunity to connect, present my results, and receive important feedback. These results will form the basis of my second manuscript, and the insights I gained at the workshop have sparked new ideas for discussion. Beyond the science, I also interacted with other early-career researchers, laying the groundwork for potential future collaborations.


The three-day workshop was intense yet rewarding, packed with activities, breakout sessions, and meaningful discussions. Professionally, it provided energy and inspiration to continue my research. Personally, it boosted my confidence. As PhD students, we sometimes doubt the path we’ve chosen, but engaging with experienced researchers and seeing their enthusiasm for their work gave me a glimpse of the opportunities that lie ahead after completing my PhD. Presenting my results and receiving positive feedback from peers and experts was a particularly motivating experience.
Attending the workshop had an immediate impact on my career. On the final day, I was honored to receive one of three Early Career Researcher prizes for my poster presentation. This recognition not only validated my hard work but also introduced me to a broader audience within the geochemistry and paleoceanography community. The event helped establish my presence in the field, opening doors for future collaborations and enabling others to learn about my research and study area.
Preparing for the workshop required effort, as I had recently obtained the results I presented. I studied and prepared my poster carefully to communicate my findings effectively. The organizers also shared the program and discussion topics in advance, which allowed me to prepare by reading relevant abstracts and familiarizing myself with the work of other participants. I even reviewed the CVs of some researchers to identify key people to connect with. The day before the workshop, an icebreaker event at a local pub helped ease my nerves. Playing a team quiz with fellow attendees was a fun way to start socializing before the formal sessions began.


One of the most enjoyable activities at the workshop was the “speed dating” session on the first day. As a shy person, this structured networking activity was invaluable. It allowed me to meet several participants quickly, introducing myself and answering a mix of workshop-related and general questions. This activity broke the ice and made it easier to engage with others throughout the event.
For students planning to attend this or similar workshops, my advice is to prepare thoroughly. Review the program, read papers by participating researchers, and familiarize yourself with their work. Make sure your poster is ready and that you’re clear on what you want to convey. Most importantly, engage with other attendees—both established researchers and your peers. These interactions are where you’ll gain the most value.
The workshop in Bristol was a memorable and impactful experience. It not only strengthened my research but also gave me a sense of belonging in the scientific community.