Pierrick Harnay

I grew up and studied in France, which gave me the opportunity to easily conduct my field research in French Polynesia. Since my undergraduate studies, I have been involved in scientific projects on the island of Mo’orea, in the South Pacific.

My PhD, titled “Adaptation Challenges of Pocilloporidae Corals in Changing Environments,” focuses on understanding the life cycle of five Pocillopora species and how coral colonies adapt to environmental changes. I combine ecological fieldwork with molecular analyses and macro- to micro-scale characterizations to explore the phenotypic plasticity of each species found on the island.

This research aims to provide new insights into the biology and adaptability of Pocillopora corals, helping the Pacific and broader scientific community to better understand their life cycles and to inform coral restoration strategies when needed.