EGU25
Dong Jian
University of East Anglia
Attending the EGU General Assembly was a true feast of science—enriching, entertaining, exciting, and deeply motivating. It was more than just a conference; it was a convergence of knowledge, creativity, and community in geosciences.
the Orals
As an audience in the oral sessions, I found myself constantly amazed by the diverse voices, scientific pitches, and perspectives presented. The talks spanned a vast range—from the icy Arctic to the stormy Southern Ocean, from theoretical frameworks to cutting-edge observations, and from the swirling dynamics of a single ocean eddy to the complexities of our climate system. Each presentation offered a unique lens into the stories and discoveries that define our oceans. It was a reminder of how interconnected and dynamic Earth science truly is, and how each piece of research contributes to a broader understanding of our planet.
the Posters
Presenting my own poster was a valuable learning experience. One key insight I gained is the importance of being genuine and authentic as a researcher. I initially felt hesitant to highlight the unresolved issues or limitations in my work, but I soon realized that such transparency fosters productive discussions. Rather than judgment, I received encouragement, insightful feedback, and even offers of collaboration. This reaffirmed my belief that science thrives on openness and community, and that the poster hall is not just a place to showcase results, but a space to grow ideas and relationships.
the Awards
Among the many inspiring events, the Medal and Award Lectures stood out, especially the OS Division Outstanding Early Career Scientist Award Lecture by Jens Terhaar. His talk left a profound impression on me—not only for the innovative science he presented, which challenged conventional views using novel methods, but also for his courage in sharing his personal journey. Jens spoke openly about the struggles he faced during his PhD, including mental health challenges and navigating the pressures of academia. His honesty was both rare and powerful. It reminded me that behind every scientific achievement is a human story. His words inspired me to persevere, to speak up about challenges, and to remain kind and compassionate in the academic world.
I felt so great to mingle with the wider ocean science community instead of digging my rabbit hole. I am more energized and motivated after coming back. I truly thank my supportive supervision team, the School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, and the Challenger Society for Marine Science.
Profile:
Dong is a second-year PhD student at the University of East Anglia, supervised by Dr. Xiaoming Zhai, Prof. Ian Renfrew, and Prof. David Stevens. His research combines numerical modeling (MITgcm) and observational data to investigate air-sea interactions, large-scale ocean currents, mesoscale eddies, and sea ice dynamics in the Nordic Seas. These seas, a crucial gateway between the Atlantic and the Arctic, play a fundamental role in regulating regional and global ocean circulation and climate.
Latest News
Marine Data Management, Governance and the MEDIN toolset
The Marine Environmental Data and Information Network (MEDIN) and OceanWise are delighted to invite you to attend our popular free online training workshop: ‘Marine Data Management, Governance and the MEDIN toolset’ on the 19th – 23rd of May 2025.
Workshop on the contribution of UK Arctic Ocean science to the International Polar Year 32/33
12:00 11th June – 16:00 12th June 2025: NOC Southampton (In-person with online option): Registration deadline 16th May
REGISTER HERE
Pre-meeting questionnaire (open to all)
The purpose of this workshop is for the UK Ocean Science community to discuss and then draft a prospectus document outlining the priority Arctic research questions the community would like to address during the run up to, throughout and beyond the International Polar Year 32/33. Additionally, to identify what unique strengths and technologies the UK has to help fill these knowledge gaps.
The second day of the workshop will be dedicated to writing groups, one for each of the priority research questions identified - from both the pre-meeting questionnaire (HERE) and day one discussion. By the end of the meeting, each group will have produced draft text and sourced supporting figures for the prospectus.
Post meeting, the draft will be opened for comments and suggestions from everyone, regardless of whether they were able to attend the workshop or not. It will then be shared with UK funders (UKRI, FCDO, DSIT, ARIA) and potential international programmes with whom we would like to collaborate (e.g. Arctic 2050, Norway). It will form a basis from which wider integration with terrestrial, atmospheric and cryosphere communities can be built, e.g. at the UK Arctic Science Meeting in September in Northumbria.
To ensure balanced community and ECR representation, and to ensure that the size of the writing groups is efficient and effective, if the number of registrations from individual institutes becomes overwhelming, we may contact individuals or teams and ask that each institute selects a smaller number of individuals to attend in-person. Please wait for confirmation of in-person attendance before finalising travel arrangements.
The workshop will be open to hybrid attendance and contributions on both days.
Challenger Society Council Position Vacancy
The Challenger Society for Marine Science (CSMS) are pleased to announce an exciting opportunity to support the next generation of ocean scientists and innovators. CSMS are looking for a new Council member to fill the Student Travel Awards and Stepping Stones Portfolio. The successful applicant will administer the travel and research grants available for Early Career Researchers.
The role involves:
- Receiving applications for the two schemes and responding to applicant inquiries
- Soliciting and compiling input from the rest of the Council for assessing the applications
- Communicating with successful and unsuccessful applicants for the two schemes
- Working with the Honorary Treasurer on allocating funds to successful applicants
- Following up with award winners on their reporting requirements
- Attending Council meetings four times a year (in person or online) and contributing to discussions and decision making for CSMS
The usual term for Council members is three years.
For more information about the CSMS Council, please follow this link: https://www.challenger-society.org.uk/The_Council
For more information about our Early Career Researcher grants and awards, please follow this link:
https://www.challenger-society.org.uk/Stepping_Stones
and
https://www.challenger-society.org.uk/Travel_awards
If you are interested in applying or have any questions regarding the role, please contact kathen@bas.ac.uk