Vanessa Hatje's research centers on the biogeochemical cycling of trace elements and carbon, examining the influence of both natural and anthropogenic processes, including climate change. Her work involves developing analytical methods to detect contaminants in marine matrices. Applying these novel and existing methods, she seeks to enhance our understanding of the factors influencing contaminant cycling, bioavailability, and transfers at continent-ocean interfaces. Additionally, Vanessa investigates interactions with biotic and abiotic components under climate change conditions. Her more recent projects include evaluating Blue C dynamics (stocks and accumulation rates) in mangrove and seagrasses along the coast of Brazil to understand the potential of Blue C ecosystems in Brazil to mitigate climate change and their vulnerability to human impacts.