"From atoms to ecosystems....."
Stable Isotope Consulting, Training, and Custom Data Analysis with Dr. Brian Hayden.
Stable isotopes are powerful tools — but only when interpreted correctly. I help researchers, agencies, and industry turn isotope data into clear, defensible decisions.
Whether you need tailored mixing models, instrument troubleshooting, project design, or R-based analysis, I provide tailored support based on 20+ years of applied isotope ecology.
APPLICATIONS
Fisheries
Stable isotopes reveal what fish eat, where they've been, and how food webs are structured — without the limitations of stomach contents or conventional tagging. From diet reconstruction and trophic position estimation to habitat use, migration, and stock discrimination, isotope analysis provides legally defensible, quantitative evidence for fisheries management and ecological assessment.
Aquaculture
Isotope signatures are permanently locked into tissue at the time of growth — providing an unfakeable, independently verifiable record traceable from feed source to consumer plate. Atomic Ecology provides isotope-based services for product provenance, escapee detection, ecosystem impact assessment, feed verification, and regulatory compliance across finfish, shellfish, and seaweed operations.
Nutrient Tracing
Identifying where nitrate contamination comes from is the first step to managing it. Using the dual isotope approach (δ¹⁵N and δ¹⁸O of nitrate), Atomic Ecology can distinguish agricultural, sewage, atmospheric, and natural nitrate sources in rivers, lakes, and groundwater — providing the objective evidence base required for WFD compliance, catchment management, and regulatory reporting.
CONSULTING SERVICES
Isotope Ecology Consulting
For research projects, fisheries, wildlife agencies, ecotoxicology, aquaculture, and environmental monitoring.
Includes:
•Project design and sampling guidance
•Data review and quality assessment
•Interpretation and reporting
•Student and team support
•Quick-turnaround expert advice
Data Analysis & Interpretation
Expert support with:
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simmr
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MixSIAR
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SIBER
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custom R workflows
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trophic enrichment factors
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uncertainty & Bayesian interpretation
Perfect for students, labs, and agencies working through complex data.
IRMS Training & Method Support
For labs using Thermo, IsoPrime, Elementar, or SERCON instruments.
Support includes:
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Instrument theory & workflow
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Method optimization
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Sample preparation
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QA/QC procedures
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Troubleshooting
WHO I WORK WITH
•Universities & research groups
•Government agencies (fisheries, environment, wildlife)
•Industry labs & IRMS manufacturers
•Food authentication & aquaculture companies
•Graduate students and early-career researchers
Ready to get started?
Book a consultation or request a custom training session today.