The Challenger Society for Marine Science

International Seaweed Symposium

University of Plymouth

I would like to thank The Challenger Society for Marine Science for awarding me a Travel Award to attend the International Seaweed Symposium, held recently in beautiful Victoria, Canada. This marked a major milestone for me as it was my first time presenting at an international conference, and the experience was both professionally rewarding and personally inspiring.

Thanks to the Society’s support, I had the opportunity to share my research on the microbiomes of farmed sugar kelp with a global audience. The symposium provided an incredible platform for networking with researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers from around the world. These connections are already proving valuable as I explore future collaborations and new directions in my work.

The conference offered a comprehensive look at the latest advances in seaweed science, from cutting-edge technologies in cultivation to ecological and climate-related research. It was exciting to see how dynamic and rapidly growing this field is on a global scale.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the symposium was the inclusion of First Nations knowledge and perspectives. Hearing from Indigenous speakers highlighted the vital role of traditional ecological understanding in shaping sustainable and respectful marine science. This has left a lasting impression on how I view my own work moving forward.

Beyond the scientific program, I also had the chance to take part in a cyanotyping workshop, a creative and hands-on experience that blended art with science and deepened my appreciation for the beauty and diversity of seaweeds.

It was a joy to explore the natural beauty of Canada and be immersed in a welcoming, passionate community of seaweed scientists. I return home inspired, informed, and excited for the next chapter in my research!

Thank you again to The Challenger Society for Marine Science for making this incredible opportunity possible.

Awardee Profile:

I’m a PhD candidate based at the Marine Biological Association and the University of Plymouth. My primary interest lies in kelp aquaculture and its associated ecosystem services. My research explores multiple aspects of farmed kelp ecology, including biodiversity impacts, kelp-associated bacterial communities, and the potential for carbon capture and sequestration.

The overarching aim of my project is to develop a UK-focused ecosystem services framework for seaweed aquaculture, helping to support the industry’s sustainable growth. I combine hands-on fieldwork with lab-based research to better understand marine ecosystems and their responses to aquaculture. I’m passionate about connecting science with real-world impact and shaping the future of ocean sustainability.