Emily Stevenson

Dr Emily May Stevenson is a marine microbiologist with expertise in plastic pollution, microplastics, environmental bacteria and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Specifically, Emily completed her PhD with the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory, uncovering how plastics develop potentially pathogenic and drug-resistant microbial biofilms on their surface. Emily's research has found that microplastics, including plastics intentionally used in wastewater treatment plants (bio-media), can support diverse, disease-causing and multi-drug resistant communities across different aquatic environments. Beyond academia, Emily has worked directly at the science-policy interface, evaluating UK One Health AMR legislation with the House of Lords and representing youth voices with the G7 youth engagement group. Finally, as co-founder and director of Beach Guardian, Emily has led large-scale conservation efforts recognised by national awards.