FIELDWORK: FROM BEACH TO BENCH
Fieldwork is an integral part of the Klimovich Lab’s research and training. We view it not only as a teaching activity, but as a fundamental component of how we approach biological questions - linking natural diversity with mechanistic understanding. Working directly with marine invertebrates in their natural habitats provides essential context for our studies in evolutionary developmental biology and complements our laboratory-based approaches.
Alexander Klimovich has extensive experience working at marine research stations in northern seas, including under challenging and polar conditions. These environments foster agility, strategic thinking, and the ability to respond effectively to unforeseen situations. The strong team-working skills developed in the field form the basis of the collaborative and mindful culture we cultivate in the lab today.
This experience also fuels Alexander's role in leading field courses and training students, where emphasis is placed not only on scientific skills, but also on responsibility, preparation, and effective teamwork - competencies that extend well beyond fieldwork into all aspects of academic research.
Kristineberg
In October 2024, Alexander visited the Kristineberg Station and established the first contacts there. Currently, I'm preparing a new course on Developmental Biology of Invertebrates, which we hope to offer at the Kristineberg station soon. The unique location of the Station, modern equipment and facilities, as well as excellent researchers with a wide range of interests and expertise - we can't wish a better location for our future educational and research projects.
Helgoland
Biological Station Helgoland of Alfred-Wegener Institute
Helgoland Island, North Sea
Every summer since 2013, Alexander offers an 8 days-long field course “Developmental Biology of Marine Invertebrates”. He is in charge of both, educational and organisational aspects of this course.
Responsibilities:
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funding acquisition from CAU Kiel, material sourcing and transportation;
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instructing students, introducing experiments and demonstrating key procedures;
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moderating seminars and workshops;
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sampling littoral, pelagic and benthic invertebrates (plankton net, dredge, trawling) on research vessel Uthörn
Over the years, this field course has become a defining element of the Klimovich Lab and a hallmark of our teaching and training approach. It combines hands-on sampling, focused lectures, experimental work, and interactive workshops into a cohesive and immersive learning experience. The course is widely appreciated by students (see Endorsements) and has evolved into a platform that continuously shapes and refines our approach to teaching and mentoring.
We are grateful for the long-standing support of Kathrin Böhmer, Uwe Nettelmann, and Eva-Maria Brodte, who provide an exceptionally welcoming and well-equipped environment for our field activities.
Every summer since 2013, I offer a 6-8 days field course “Developmental Biology of Marine Invertebrates”.
My role: course leader
Responsibilities:
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funding acquisition from CAU Kiel, material sourcing and transportation
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sampling littoral, pelagic and benthic invertebrates (plankton net, dredge, trawling) on research vessel Uthörn
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in vitro experiments, imaging, student seminars.
Kartesh
White Sea Biological Station “Kartesh” of Zoological Institute of RAS
Chupa Inlet, Kandalaksha Bay, White Sea
Every summer from 2004 till 2008, Alexander has participated in sampling expeditions, each 2-4 weeks long.
His responsibilities as a researcher were:
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fund acquisition from the Russian Foundation of Fundamental Research, material sourcing and transportation
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sampling of littoral Gastropoda (Littorina, Buccinum), Bivalvia (Mya, Mytilus), and their Trematoda parasites
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in vitro experiments, imaging
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sample conservation for microscopy, immunochemical and transcriptomic analysis
The results of these expeditions were partially published in Journal of Evolutionary Biochemistry and Physiology and Experimental Parasitology.
Dalniye Zelentsy
Marine Station of Murmansk Marine Biological Institute of RAS
Kola Peninsula, Barents Sea
In summer 2007, Alexander participated in a 2 weeks-long sampling expeditions to the Barents Sea coast.
As a researcher, he was responsible for:
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fund acquisition from the Russian Foundation of Fundamental Research, material sourcing and transportation
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sampling of littoral Gastropoda (Littorina, Testudinalia)
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in vitro experiments, imaging, sample conservation for microscopy (TEM) and immunochemical analysis
Due to a particularly remote location, complicated logistics, spartan lodging and working conditions, and extreme weather conditions, this expedition required enormous organization and planning skills, as well as extraordinary determination from Alexander's side. These experiences strengthened his leadership skills and affinity for field research.
Belomorskaya
Marine Biological Station of St.-Petersburg State University
Srendiy Island, Chupa Inlet, Kandalaksha Bay, White Sea
For three years, 2002 – 2008, Alexander contributed field courses “Comparative Immunobiology” for students of St.-Petersburg State University, each 2 weeks-long in summer
As a course leader assistant, Alexander was responsible for:
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equipment and fleet maintenance, material sourcing and transportation
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sampling littoral, pelagic and benthic invertebrates (plankton net, dredge, trawling, benthic grab sampler)
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assistance with experiments on Asterias, Mytilus, Aurelia
This early experience sparked Alexander's fascination with nature and interest in marine biology. In retrospect, it profoundly impacted his development as a naturalist, researcher, and teacher.