Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience |  University of Cape Coast

Albert Koomson is currently an MPhil candidate in Integrated Coastal Zone Management at the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (DFAS), jointly affiliated with the Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (ACECoR) and the Centre for Coastal Management (CCM), University of Cape Coast, Ghana. He is also an OCPP (Ocean Country Partnership Programme) Scholar and serves as a Laboratory Technologist at the Fisheries and Coastal Research Laboratory and Centre for Coastal Management within the University.

Albert’s research interests lie at the intersection of ecotoxicology, pollution monitoring, and coastal resource management. His current thesis, titled “Suitability of Microtox Assay as a Screening Tool for the Assessment of Environmental Pollutants in Ghana,” focuses on evaluating the applicability of bioluminescence-based assays for rapid toxicity screening in aquatic ecosystems impacted by anthropogenic activities.

In April 2025, Albert undertook a specialized scientific training programme at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK. This training provided in-depth exposure to Microtox assay protocols, sediment analysis, biomarker evaluation, and laboratory quality assurance systems. Through direct engagement with internationally certified laboratories and experts, Albert acquired hands-on skills in advanced toxicological testing, data interpretation, and analytical instrumentation.

The training has significantly enhanced the technical foundation of his ongoing research, enabling him to apply validated Microtox methodologies to assess pollutant toxicity in Ghanaian coastal sediments. Moreover, the knowledge gained in laboratory quality control and environmental monitoring will contribute to establishing robust testing protocols within his home institution. These capabilities are not only instrumental to the successful completion of his research project but also central to his long-term professional goal of becoming a proficient Coastal Zone Manager, Ecotoxicologist and a technically skilled Laboratory Technologist.

By integrating rigorous scientific training with applied coastal management, Albert is poised to contribute meaningfully to national and regional efforts in marine pollution assessment, ecosystem health monitoring, and sustainable coastal development.